
Glass t_ 



Book. 



>-^7a . 



WWl 



OSTHB 

mm mw 









BY 

REV. CHARLES A. GOODRICH 



WITH ENGRAVINGS 



THIRB EDITION. 



HARTFORD . 

PUBLISHED BY BARBER & ROBINSON. 
MDCCCXXIII. 



l^ 



.v<:^ 



u ^ 



• DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT, u. 

BE IT REMEMBERED, That on the eighth day of Murch, is the fotif- 
JL 8. MTsnth year of the Independence of the United States of America, ReT. Ch*rki 

A Goodrich, of the said District hat'a deposited in this office the title of a book, the 
fight ^herecf he claims as author, in the words following — to wit : " A history of the United Statei 
•f America, by Rev. Charles A. Goodrich, with engravings. " In conformity to the Act of the Con- 
fress of the United States, entitled "An Act for the eocouragement of learning, by securing the copief 
•f Maps, Charts, and Bookt, to the Authors and Proprietors of such copies, during the times therein 
aeotioBed " 

CHAS. A. INGERSOLL, 

Clerk of the District of Connecticut. 
A trot copy ofRteord, exaaiined and sealed hy me. 

CHAS. A. INGERSOLL, 

Clark of the District of Connecticut. 



I 



PREFACE. 



Some time since, the author published a His- 
tory of the United States for schools, the plan of 
which, though novel, met with general approba- 
tion. Encouraged by this sanction of a work, 
originally offered with much diffidence, the au- 
thor ventures to bring before the public the pre- 
sent volume, founded upon the work above-men- 
tioned, but somewhat expanded, both in respect 
to leading facts, and minute details. 

As to the views which led the author to adopt 
a plan, in treating a historical subject, so widely 
departing from precedent and authority, he would 
refer to his preface to the school book for an ex- 
planation. Whether these views will satisfy 
ever}' one of the excellence of the plan, or not, 
it is hoped, that they may at least rescue the 
work from being classed with that deluge of pub- 
lications, which inundate the country, and which 
seem to have no better origin than conceit, or pe 
cuniary speculation. 

For the benefit of the reader who may not 
advert to the work already mentioned, the fol- 
lowing explanations may be necessary. 

This history of the United States is divided 
mto eleven periods — each distinguished by some 



fREFAOE. 



peculiar characteristic. The main purpose of 
this division is, to aid the memory by presenting 
eertain prominent eras, from which the whole 
subject of dates may be distinctly surveyed, and 
the object of attaching to each period some dis- 
tinguishing trait is, that the recollection may the 
more readily assign events to their eras, and thus 
determine their dates. Thus, a person acquaint- 
ed with our division of the subject, knows that 
all discoveries, or nearly all, belong to period I, 
and therefore lie between the years 1492 and 
1607. He is therefore able to fix the date of 
any discovery, with sufficient accm-acy for all 
practical purposes. The same will apply to 
events belonging to the other periods. 

The engravings are introduced rather to aid 
the memory in retaining the general division, and 
the characteristics of each period, than for the 
purpose of embellishment. 

Two sizes of type are employed. The matter 
in larger type is designed to give a brief outline 
of the history of the United States, and may be 
read in connexion. The matter in smaller type, 
is to be regarded rather in the light of notes, 
which, without studying exact regularity, are 
thrown in, as they may subserve the purposes of 
illustration, and completeness in the delineation 
of events ; or as they may contribute to support 
the interest, and establish the recollections of 
the reader. 



intvortnttion. 



In entering upon the perusal of a volume with 
higher objects in view than those of mere amuse- 
ment, it is well to place those objects distinctly 
before us. What advantages, then, do we pro- 
pose to ourselves, in perusing the History of the 
United States ? In general, it may be said, that 
the proper end of all reading is to make ''good 
inen, and good citizens, ^^ But by what particu- 
lar steps is History to subserve this end ? 

1 . History sets before us striking instances ol 
virtue, enterprise, courage, geneiosity, patriot- 
ism ; and, by a natural principle of emulation, 
incites us to copy such noble examples. History 
also presents us with pictures of the vicious ulti- 
mately overtaken by misery and shame, and thus 
solemnly warns us against vice. ; 

2. History, to use the words of Professor 
Tytler, is the school of politics. That is, it 
opens the hidden springs of human affairs ; the 
causes of the rise, grandeur, revolutions and fall 
of empires ; it points out the influence which the 
manners of a people exert upon a government, 
and the influence which that government recip- 
rocally exerts upon the manners of a people ; it 



§ INTRODUCTION. ~ 

illustrates the blessings of political union, and 
the miseries of faction ; the dangers of unbridled 
liberty, and the mischiefs of despotic power. 

Observation. In a free country, where every man may be 
called upon to discharge important duties, either by his vote, oi 
by the administration of office, it is the business of all to be 
more or less acquainted with the science of politics. Nothing 
can better instruct us in this, than the study of history. 

S, History displays the dealings of God with 
mankind. It calls upon us often to regard with 
awe, his darker judgments, and again it awak- 
ens the liveliest emotions of gratitude, for his kind 
and benignant dispensations. It cultivates a 
sense of dependence on him ; strengthens our con- 
fidence in his benevolence ; and impresses us 
with a conviction of his justice. 

4. Besides these advantages, the study of His- 
tory, if properly conducted, offers others, of in- 
ferior importance, indeed, but still they are not 
to be disregarded. It chastens the imagination ; 
improves the taste ; furnishes matter for conver- 
isation and reflection ; enlarges the range of 
thought ; strengthens and disciplines the mind. 



GENERAL DIVISION. 



The History of the United States of America 
may be divided into Eleven Periods^ each dis- 
tinguished by some striking characteristic, or 
remarkable circumstance. 

The j^ixnt ^tXii^^ will extend from the 
Discovery of Afuerica, by Columhus, 1492, to 
the first permanent English settlement in Amili- 
ca, at Jamestown, Virginia, 1607, and is distin- 
guished for Discoveries. 

Ohs. Previous to the discovery of America in 1492, the in- 
habitants of Europe, Asia, and Africa, were of course ignorant 
of its existence. But soon after this event, several expeditions 
were fitted out, and came to make discoveries, in what was then 
called the " New World." Accordingly, between 1492 and 
1607, the principal countries lying along the-eastern coast of 
North America, were discovered, and more or less explored. 
As our history, during this period, embraces little more than 
jccounts of these expeditions, we characterize it as remarkable 
for discoveries. 

The SttOUtt li^riO?! will extend from the 
Settlement of Jamestown, 1607, to the accession 
of William and Mary to itie tlwone of England, 
1689, and is distinguished for Settlements. 

Obs. During this period our history is principally occupied 
m detailing the various settlements, which were either effected, 
or attempted, whhin the boundaries of the United States. It 
incluaes, indeed, wars with the natives — disputes between pro- 
prietors cf lands, and colonies — the formation of governments, 
80C. &c. ; but these are circumstances which pertain to, and 
form a part of, the seiiiement of new countries. As this pe- 
riod embraces the settlement of most of the original States in 
the Union, viz. Massachusetts, including Maine, Connecticut, 
Rhode Island, Nev/-Hampshire, New-York, New-Jersey, Penn- 
sylvania, Maryland, Delaware, North and South Carolina, and 
Virginia, it is therefore characterized as remarkable for settk^ 
menfs. 



g GENERAL DITISION. 

The J!ri^(tJr period win extend from the 
Accession of William and Mary to the throne 
of England, 1689, to the declaration of the war 
by England against France, called " the French 
and Indian War," 1 756, and is remarkable for 
the three wars of King William, Queen Anni;, 
and George II. 

Obs. So long as the Colonies remained attached to the Eng- 
glish crown, they became involved, of course, in the wars of 
the motlier country. Three times during this period, was TWir 
proclaimed between England and France, and, as the French 
had possession of Canada, and were leagued with several 
powerful tribes of Indians, as often did the colonies become the 
theatre of their hostile operations. This period is therefore 
most remarkable for these three wars. 

The jFourttl 3|n*f oil will extend from the 
Declaration of war by England against France^ 
1756, to the commencement of hostilities by 
Great Britian against the American Colonies, in 
the battle of Lexington, 1 775, and is distinguish- 
ed for the French and Indian War. 

The iFtftfl iieriotr will extend from the 
Battle of Lexington, 1775, to the disbanding of 
the American Army at West Point, New-York, 
1783, and is distinguished for the War of the 
Revolution. « 

The Stptfl J^tttOtr will extend from the 
Disbanding of the Army, 1783, to the inaugu- 
ration of George Washington, as President of the 
United States, under the Federal Constitution, 
1789, and is distinguished for the Formation 
AND Establishment oe the Federal Constitu- 
tion. 

The Setirnt]^ i^rttOtr will extend from the 
Inuuguration of Presideiit Washington, 1789, 
to the inauguration of John Adams, as President 
of the United States, 1797. This period is dis- 
tinguished for Washington's Administration. 



GENERAL DIVISION. 9 

The ^fSfltH J^rrfOtr will extend from the 
Inauguration of President Adams, 1797, to the 
Inauguration of Thomas Jefferson as president 
of the United States, 1801. This period is dis- 
tinguished for Adams' Administration. 

The Ninttl J^ttrf 05 will extend from the In- 
auguration of President Jefferson, 1 80 1 , to the 
Inauguration of James Madison as president of 
the United States, 1809. This period is distin- 
guished for Jefferson's Administration. 

The Stntil |3erf 15 J? will extend from the Im 
auguration of President Madison, 1809, to the 
Inauguration of James Monroe, as president of 
the United States, 1817. This period is distin- 
guished for Madison's Administration, and the 
late War with Great Britain. 

The 3Sle4ientJj l^etiOJr will extend from the 
Inauguration of President Monroe, 1 81 7, lo the 
pre^vent time, and is distinguished for Monroe's 
Administration. 



UNITED STATES. 

PISTINCUISHED FOR DISCOTERIES. 

Extending from the Discovery of San Salva- 
dor by Columbus, 1492, to the first perma 
nent English settlement at Jamestovm, Vir- 
mginia, 1607. 

Section L The early discoveries on the Con- 
tinent of America were made by the Spaniards, 

English, and French. 

Id these, the Spaniards took the lead ; and 
have the honour of first communicating to Eu- 
ro]-^ the intelligence of a New World. 

\ r several years previously to the discovery 
of } lerica, the attention of Europe had been 
drawn to the enterprises of the Portuguese, 
who were attempting to discover a passage to the 
Ea«t Indies, by doubling the southern extremity 
rf Africa. 

Christopher Columbus, a native of Genoa, 
roused by these enterprises, and strongly per- 
suaded that a weFtern passage to the East Indies 
was practicable, hy steering across the Atlantic, 
determined to ascertain the point by experiment. 

Accordingly, after encountering various diffi- 
culties he sailed from Spain, Friday, Aug. 3, 
1 '^92, vv'iUi a small fleet, under the patronage of 
Ferdinand and Isabella, then on the united thrones 
of Castile and Arragon ; and on the 12th of Oct. 
1492, discovered the Island San Salvador, 
This Island is three thousand miles west of the 







1492 o 



FiEJlffiKiISMJSro FCQiIR. gUTTOSClilllBlSIBJ 

182:^. 



MRIOD I....149«....1607....D1SCOVERIES. H 

Canaries, — the most western land known at the 
time of Cokimbus- discovery, — and is now known 
as one of the Bahamas. 

Columbus, after maturing his plan, first offered to sail under 
the patronage of the Senate of Genoa, but they treated his pro- 
ject as visionarj^ lie next solicited the patronage of the Por- 
tuguese, but was denied. 

Disappointed in tliese applications, and despairing of assist- 
ance from Henry VII. of England, to who'n he had sent his 
brother Bartholomew, but, who, being captured, did not reach 
England for several years : Columbus next laid his plans before 
Ferdinand and Isabella. 

Ferdinand was long deaf to his application ; but through the 
favour of Isabella, who listened to his plans, a treaty was made 
with him. The queen sold her jewels and defrayed the ex- 
pense of his outfit and voyage. His deet consisted of the 
Santa Maria^ Pinta and Nigna, with ninety men, victualled 
for a year. The whole expense was the small sum of about • 
sixteen thousand dollars. 

Columbus, when he sailed, expected to land in India ;* but 
Providence was opening his way to an unknown world. He 
first touched at the Canaries, and thence stretched westward 
into sea-s as yet unexplored. 

After sailing about two months, the crew became anxious 
and discontented. They were appalled at the extent of their 
voyage, and despaired of accomplishing the purposes for which 
it was undertaken. Columbus, however, in the midst of mu- 
tiny, and while every heart around him sunk under the most 
gloomy apprehensions, remained firm and inflexible. He con- 
trived to pacify the spirit of rebellion, by promising to return, 
if land should not be discovered within three days. 

The night of the 11th of October, 1492, was memorable to 
Columbus, and to the world. Convinced from appearances that 
land was near, he ordered the sails furled, and a w atch set. No 
eye, however, was shut. All on board was suspense and sleep- 
less expectation. 

About midnight, the cry of lajid ! land ! was heard on board 
the Pinta. The morning came, — October 12th O. S. — and 
realized their anticipations. Tlie island was distinctly in view. 
The occasion demanded an acknowledgment to Him, who had 
so auspiciously guided their way. All, therefore, bowed in 
humble gratitude, and joined in a hymn of thanks to God. 

* It has been stated, and perhaps with truth, that Columbus expected to 
find a western continent,; but still the best authorities unite in saying, that 
kls object was to discover a western passage to Jndxa. 



12 PERIOD 1 1492....1607....DISCOVER1ES. 

Columbus, in a rich dress, and with a drawn sword, soom 
after landed with his men, with whom having kneeled and 
kissed the ground with tears of j©y, he took formal possession 
of the Island, in the name of Queen Isabella, his patron. On 
landing, the Spaniards were surprised to find a race of people, 
quite unlike any ihat they had ever seen before. They were of 
a dusky, copper colour — naked — beardless, with long black 
hair, floating on their shoulders, or bound in tresses round their 
heads. The natives were still more surprised at the sight of 
the Spaniards, whom they considered, as the children of the 
sun, their idol. The ships they looked upon as animals, with 
eyes of lightning, and voices of thunder. 

Having spent some time in examining the country, and in an 
amicable traffic with the natives, Columbus set sail on his re- 
turn. He was overtaken by a storm which had nearly proved 
fatal. During the storm, Columbus hastily enclosed in a cake 
of wax, a short account of his voyage and discovery, which he 
put into a tight cask, and threw it into the sea. This he didj 
hoping that if he perished, it might fall into the hands of some 
navigator, or be cast ashore, and thus the knowledge of his dis- 
covery be preserved to the world. But the storm abated, and 
he Eirrived safe in Spain, March 15th, 1493. 

For this discovery, it being the first, and having laid the foun- 
dation for all the subsequent discoveries in America, Cohunbus 
was doubtless entitled to the honour of giving a name to the 
New World. But he was robbed of it by the address of Ame- 
ricus Vespucius. This adventurer was a FlorenHae who sailed 
to the New World in 1499, with one Alonzo Ojeda, a gallant 
and active officer, who had accompanied Columbus in his first 
voyage. On his return, he published so flattering an accoimt of 
his voyage, that his nunie was given to the continent with mani- 
fest injustice to Columbus. 

After this, Columbus made several other voyages, but did not 
discover the continent of America until Aug. 1, 1498, during 
his third voyc^ge, at which time he made the land, now called 
Terra Firma, — South America. 

During this voyage Columbus was destined to experience 
severe afflictions. After his departure from Spain, having been 
appointed governor of the New World, his enemies, by false 
representations, persuaded the king to appoint another in his 
place. At the same time the king was induced to give orders 
that Columbus should be seized and sent to Spain. This order 
was executed with rigid severity, and the heroic Columbus 
returned to Spain in irons ! 

On his arrival, he was set at liberty by the king, but he never 
recovered his authority. Soon after a fourth voyage which he 



PERIOD l....l492....1607....DlSCOVERrES. IS 

made, finding Isabella his patroness, dead, and himself ne- 
glected, he sunk beneath his misfortunes and infirmities^ and 
died, May 20, 1506, in the fifty-ninth year of his age. 

Section II. In May, 1497, John Cabot, and 
his son, Sebastian Cabot, commenced a voyage 
of discovery, under the patronage of Henry VII. 
king of England ; and on the 24th of June, dis- 
covered kmd, which, being the first fhey had seen, 
they called, Prima Vista, This was theJsland 
ot^ JVewfoundland. Leaving this, they soon af- 
ter fell in with a smaller island, which they nam- 
ed St. Johns ; thence, continuing westerly, they 
made the first discovery* of tlie Continent of 
America, and ranged its coast from Labrador to 
Virginia, or according to others, to Florida. 

Section III. The French attempted no dis- 
coveries on the American coast until 1524. This 
year Francis I. commissioned Verrazano, a Flo- 
rentine, for this purpose. He ranged the coast 
from Florida to the 50th degree of North Lati- 
tude, and named the country New France. 

Section IV. In 1584, Sir "Walter Raleigh, un- 
der commission of Queen Elizabeth, arrived in 
America, entered Pamplico Soimd, now in North 
Carolina, and thence proceeded to Roanoke, an 
island neai the mouth of Albemarle Bound. 
This country he took possession of, and, on re- 
turning to England, gave so splendid a descrip- 
tion of its beauty and fertility, that Queen Eliza- 
beth bestowed upon it the name of Virginia, in 
celebration of her reign, and in allusion to her 
being unmarried. 

Section V. In 1602, Capt. Bartholomew Gos- 
nold, from Falmouth, England, discovered and 
gave name t(3 Cape Cod, 

♦There follow the authority of Dr. Holires in his "Aiuerican An- 
nals," who places the first discovery of the Continent by Columbus, in 
1498, as abready related. 

2 



14 PERIOD I....1492... 1607....DISCOVERIES. 

Gosnoldj being bound tc Virgiijia, his discovery was acci- 
dentai. He named Cape Cod, in reference to the abundance of 
Cod^sh about it. Coasting south, he discovered JNantucket, 
Buzzard's Bay, Martha's V ineyard, and one of the Elizabeth 
Islands. 

Other expeditions were fitted out and came to America for 
discovery ; we have however noticed above the leading adven- 
turers and their discoveries during this period. 



Section VI. As we are now about to enter 
upon a period which will exhibit our ancestors 
as inhabitants of this new world, it will be in- 
terest i*ng to know what was its aspect when they 
nrst set their feet upon its shores. 

STATE OF THE COUNTRY.— On the 
arrival of the first settlers, North America was 
ahnost one unbroken wilderness. From the rer 
cesses of these forests were heard the panther, 
the catamount, the bear, the wildcat, the wolf, 
and other beasts of prey. From the thickets 
rushed the buffalo, the elk, the moose, and the 
carrabo ; and scattered on the mountains, and 
plains, were seen the stag and fallow deer. Nu- 
merous flocks of the feathered tribe enlivened 
the air, and multitudes offish filled the rivers, or 
glided along the shores. The spontaneous pro- 
ductions of the soil, also, were found to be vari- 
ous and abundant. In all parts of the land grew 
grapes, which historians have likened to the an- 
cient grapes of Eshcol. In the south, were found 
mulberries, plumbs, melons, cucumbers, tobacco, 
corn, peas, beans, potatoes, squashes, pompi- 
ons, &c. Acorns, walnuts, chesnuts, wild cher- 
ries, currants, strawberries, whortleberries, in 
the season of them, grew wild in every quarter 
of the country. 



PERIOD I....1492....1607....DISCOVERIBS. 15 

VII. ABORIGINES.—The country was in- 
habited by numerous tribes or clans of Indians. 
Of their numher^ at the period the Enghsh set- 
tled among them, no certain estimate has been 
transmitted to us. They did not probably much 
exceed 150,000 within the compass of the thir- 
teen original states.^ 

In their physical character^ the different In- 
dian tribes, within the boundaries of the United 
States, were nearly the same. Their persons 
were tall, straight, and well proportioned. Their 
skins were red, or of a copper brown ; their 
eyes black, their hair long, black, and coarse. 
In constitution they were firm and vigorous, 
capable of sustaining great fatigue and hardship. 

As to their general character, they were quick 
of apprehension, and not wanting in genius. 
At times, they were friendly, and even courteous. 
In council, they were distinguished for gravity 
and eloquence : in war, for bravery and address. 
When provoked to anger, they were sullen and 
retired ; and when determined upon revenge, no 
danger would deter them ; neither absence nor 
time could cool them. If captured by an enemy, 
they never asked life, nor would they betray 
emotions of fear, even in viev«- of the tomahawk, 
or of the kindling faggot. 

They had no hoohs, or written ZfYer«^wre, except rude hiero- 
glyphics ; and education among them was confined to the arts 
of war, hunting, fishing, and the few manufactm'es which existied 
among them, most of which every male was more or less in- 
structed in. Their language was rude, but sonorous, metaphori- 
cal, and energetic. It was well suited to the purposes of puhlie 
speaking, and, when accompanied by the impassioned gestures, 
and uttered with the deep guttural tones of the savage, it is said 
to have had a singularly wild and impressive effect. They had 
some few war songs, which were little more than an unmeaning 

* This i^the estimate of Dr Trumbull 



16 PERIOD I....1492....1607....DISCOTERIEg. 

chorus, out, it is believed, they had no other compositions 
which were preserved. 

Their arts and manufactures were confined to the construc- 
tion of wigwams, bows and arrows, wampi m, ornaments, stone 
haichets, mortars for pounding corn, to tJie dressing of skins, 
weaving of coarse mats from the bark of trees, or a coarse soit 
of hemp, &c. 

Their agriculture was small in extent, and the aiticles they 
cultivated, were few in number. Corn, beans, peas, potatoes, 
melons, and a few others of a similar kind, were all. 

Their skill in medicine was confined to a few simple pre- 
scriptions and operations. Both the cold and warm bath were 
often applied, and a considerable number of plants were used 
with success. For some diseases they knew no remedy, in 
which case they resorted to their Powow, or priest, who under- 
took the removal of the disease by means of sorcery. 

It may be remarked, however, that the diseases to which the 
Indians were liable, were few, compared with those which pre- 
vail in civilized society. 

The empl'tijments of the men were principally hinting , fish- 
ing^ and war. The women dressed the food ; took charge of 
tiie domestic concerns ; tilled their narrow and scanty fields ; 
and performed almost all the drudgery connected with their 
household affairs. 

The amuseme?iis of the men were principally leaping, shoot- 
ing at marks, dancing, gaming, and hunting, in all of which 
they made the most violent exertions. Their dances were 
usually performed round a large fire. In their war dances they 
sung, or recited the feats which they or their ancestors had 
achieved; represented the manner in which they were per- 
formed, and wrought themselves up to an inexpressible degree 
of martial enthusiasm. The females occasionally joined in 
some of these sports, but had none peculiar to themselves. 

Their dress was various. In summer, they wore little be- 
sides a covering about tlie waist ; but in winter, they clothed 
themselves in the skins of wild beasts. They were exceedingly 
foad of ornaments. On days of show and festivity, their 
sachems wore mantles of deer-skin, embroidered with white 
beads, or copper, or they were painted with various devices. 
liideousness was the object aimed at in painting themselves. 
A chain of fish-bones about the neck, or the skin of a wildcat, 
was a. sign of royalty. 

For habitations, the Indians had tveeJavams, or wigwams as 
pronounced by the English. These originally consisted of a 
strong pole, erected in the centre, around which, at the distance 
of ten or twelve feet, other poles were driven obliquely into the 



PERIO© I....1492....1607....DISCOVERIES. JJ 

ground, and fastened to the centre pole at the top. Their 
coverings were of mats, or barks of trees, so well adjusted as to 
render them dry and comfortable. 

Their domestic utensils extended not beyond a hatchet of 
stone, a few shells and sharp stones, which the} tised for 
knives : stone mortars for poundhig corn, and some mats and 
skins upon which they slept. They sat, and ate, and lodged on 
the ground. With shells and stones they scalped their enemies, 
dressed their game, cut their hair, &c. They made nets of 
thread, twisted from the bark of Indian hemj), or of the sinews 
of the moose and deer. For fish-hooks they used bones ivhich 
were bent. 

Th^h food was of the coarsest and simplest kind — the flesh, 
and even the entrails of all kinds of wild beasts and birds ; and 
in their proper season, green corn, beans, peas, &c. &c. which 
they cultivated, and other fruits, which the country sponta- 
neously produced. Flesh and fish they roasted on a stick, or 
broiled on the fire. In some instances they boiled their meat 
and corn by putting hot stones in water. Corn they parched, 
especially in the winter, and upon this they lived in the absence 
oi other food. 

Tlie money of the Indians called ivampum, consisted of 
small beads wrought from shells, and strung on belts, and in 
chains. The wampum of the New-England Indians was black, 
blue, and white. That of the Six Nations was of a purple 
colour. Six of the white beads, and thiee of black, or blue, 
became of the value of a penny. A belt of wampum was 
given as a token of friendship, or as a seal or confirmation of a 
lri!aty. 

There was little among them that could be called society. 
Except when roused by some strong exrit< ment, the men were 
generally indolent, taciturn, and unsr.cial. The women were 
too degraded and oppressed to think of much besides their 
toils. Removing too, as the seasons changed, or as the game 
grew scarce, or as danger from a stronger tribe threatened, 
there was little opportunity for forming those local attachments, 
and those social ties, which spring from a long residence in a 
particular spot. Their langnage, also, though energetic, was too 
barren to serve the purposes of familiar conversation. In order 
to be understood and felt, it required the aid of strong and ani- 
mated gesticulation, which could take place only when great 
occasions excited them. It seems, therefore, that they drew no 
considerable part of their enjoyments from intercours'=' with one 
another. Female beauty had little power over the men : and 
all other pleasures gave way to the strong impulses of public 
festivity, or burning captives, or seeking murderous revenge, or 
the chase, or war, or glory. 



18 PERIOD I....1492....16d7....DISCOVERIES. 

War was the favourite employment of the savages of Nortb 
America. It rousea them from the lethargy into which they 
fell, when they ceased from the chase, and furnished them an 
opporiunity to distinguish themselves — to achieve deedi of 
giory, and taste the sweets of revenge. Their weapons were 
bows and arrows, headed with flint or other hard stones, which 
they discharged with great precision and force. The southern 
Indians used targets made of bark ; the Mohawks clothed them- 
selves with skins, as a defence against the arrows of their ene- 
mies. When the}^ fought in the open field, they rushed to the 
attack with incredible fury, and, at the same time, uttered their 
aj)palling war whoop. Those whom they had taken captive 
thmy \)i\ei\ tortured, with every variety of cruelty, and to their 
dying agonies added every species of insult. If peace was 
concluded on, the chiefs of the hostile tribes ratified the treaty 
hy smoking in succession the same pipe, called the calumet^ or 
pipe of peace. 

The government of the Indians in general, was an absolute 
monarcliy ; thoiigli it differed in different tribes. The will of 
the sachem was law. In matters of moment, he consulted, how- 
ever, his counsellors; but his decisions were final. War and 
peace, aaiong some tribes, seem to have been determined on in a 
council formed of old men, distinguished by their exploits. When 
in council, (hey spoke at pleasure, and alwaj's listened to the 
speaker, with profousid and respectful silence. " When proposi- 
tions for war or peace were made, or treaties proposed to them, by 
the colonial governoiirs, they met the ambassadors in council, 
and at the end of each paragraph, or proposition, the principal 
sachem delivered a short stick to one of his coiuicil, intimating 
that it was his peculiar duty to remember that paragraph. This 
was repeated till every proposal was finished ; they then retired 
to deliberate among themselves. After their deliberations 
were ended, the sachem, or some counsellors to whom he had 
delegated this office, replied to every paragraph in its turn, with 
an exactness scarcely exceeded in the written correspondence 
of civilized powers. Each man actually remembered what was 
committed to him, and with his assistance, the person who re- 
plied remembered the whole.'' 

The rcUgioin notions of the natives consisted of traditions, 
mingled with many superstitions. Like the ancient Greeks, 
Romans, Persians, Hindoos, &c. they believed in the existence 
of two gods, the one goody v/ho was the superior, and whom 
they styled the Great, or Good Spirit ; the other evil. They 
worshipped both ; and of both formed images of stone, to which 
thv^y paid religious homage. Besides these, they worshipped 
varbus other deities — such as fire, watei', thunder- — any thing 



PERIOD X...1492....1607....DISCOVERIES. 19 

which they conceived to be superior to themselves, and capable 
©f doing them injury. The manner of worship was to sing and 
dance round large fires. Besides dancing, they ofl'ered prayers 
and sometimes sweet scented powder. In Virginia, the Indians 
offered blood, deer's suet, and tobacco. Of the creation and the 
deluge they had distinct traditions. 

Marriage among them was generally a temporary contract. 
The men chose their wives agreeable to fancy, and put them 
away at pleasure. Marriage was celebrated, however, v.ith 
some ceremony, and in many instances was observed with fi- 
delity, not unfrequently it was as lasting as life. Polygamy was 
common among them. 

Their treatment of females was cruel and oppressive. They 
were considered by the men as slaves, and treated as such. 
Those forms of decorum between the sexes, which lay the foun- 
dation for the respectful and gallant courtesy, with which women 
are treated in civilized society, were unkrown among them. Of 
course, females were not only required to perform severe labour, 
but often felt the full weight of the passions and caprices of the 
men. 

The rites of burial among the Indians, varied but little 
throughout the continent. They generally dug holes in the 
ground, with sharpened stakes. In the bottom of the grave 
were laid sticks, upon which the corpse, wrapped in skins and 
mats, was deposited. The arms, utensils, paints, ^^nd ornaments 
of the deceased were buried with him, and a mound of earth 
raised over his grave. Among some tribes m ^i^w England, 
and among the Five Nations, the dead were buried in a sitting 
posture, with their faces towards the east. During the burial 
they uttered the most lamentable cries, and continued their 
mourning for several days. 

1 he origin of the Indians, inhabiting the country, on the ar- 
rival of the English colonists, is involved in much obscurity, and 
several different answers have been given by learned men to the 
inquiry, whence did they come to America ? The opinion best 
supported is, that they originated in Asia, and that at some form- 
er period, not now to be ascertained, they emigrated from that 
country to yVmerica, over which, in succeeding years, their de- 
scendants spread. This opinion is rendered the more probable 
by the fact, that the figure, complexion, dress, manners, cus- 
toms, &c. &c. of the nations of both continents are strikingly si- 
milar. That they might have emigrated from the eastern conti- 
nent is evident, since the distance between the East Cape of Asia, 
and Cape Prince of Wales in America, across the streights of 
Bhering, )s only about forty miles, a much shorter distance than 



PERIOD I....1492....1607....DISCOVERIES. 20 

savages frequently sail in their canoes. Besides this, the streight 
is sometimes frozen over. 

VIJI. We shall find it pleasant and profitable, occasionally 
to pause in our history, and consider what ii: struct... n may be 
drvtiwn from the pc!rti(m of it that has been ptrused. 

In the stor}- of Columbus, we are introducea to a man of ge-;Vi 
nius, energy, and enterprise. We see him forming a new, and -^ 
in that age, a mighty prcject ; and having matured his plan, we j 
see him set himself vigorously about its execution. Foi a time^;^ 
he is either treated as a visionary, or battled by opposition. 
But, neither discouraged, nor dejected, he steadily pursues his 
purpose, surmounts every obstacle, and at length spreads his 
sails upon the unknown waters of the Atlantic A kind Pro- ;. 
vidence auspiciously guides his. \va^, and crowns his enterprise 
with the unexpected discovery of a new vvorld. 

While we admire the lofty qualities ot Columbus, and look 
with wonder at the coiisequences which have resulted from his 
discovery, let us emulate his decision, energy and perseverance. 
Many are the occasions in the j)resent world, on which it will be 
■important to summon these to our aid ; and by their means, ma- 
ny useful objects may be accomplished, which, without them, 
would be unattained. 

But, while we thus press forward in the career of usefulness 
— while we aim to accomplish for our fellow men all the amount 
of good in our pov-er, let us moderate our expectations of re- 
ward here, by the consideration tiuit Columbus died the victim 
of ingratitude and disappointment. 

Another consideration, of still deeper interest, is suggested by 
the story of Columbus. In his first voyage, he contemplated 
chiefly the discovery of a passage to India. We who live to 
mark the wonderful events which have flowed from his discove- 
ry, within the short space of th.ree centuries, cannot but advert 
with awe to Him, who attaches to the actions of a single indi- 
vidual, a train of consequences so stupendous and unexpected. 
HoAv liglitly soever, then, we may think' of our conduct, let us 
remember that the invisible hand of Providence may be connect- ■ 
ing with our smallest actions the most momentous results, to our- 
selves and others. '1 

With respect to Americus Vespucius, it may be observed,^ 
that although he deprived Columbus, of the merited honour of 
giving his name to the new world, and gained this distinction for 
himself — still, his name will ever remain stigmatized as having 
appropriated that to himself, which fairly belonged to another. 



I 



r 



r:-. 



of the 

ITin TEB ^^ TAT IE ^^ 




ETTIIilBMIBWTr ©if oMiDEIESTTDWIT 



ji<y<'j'r(i):ivD. 



milBlLiISMIEB WOM. SJfMSGWSJSM&i 



^sas. 



UNITED STATES. 



DISTINGUISHED FOR SETTLEMENTS. 

Extending from the first permanent English 
settlement at Jamestown^ Virginia. 1607, to 
the accession of William and Mary to the 
throne of England^ 1689. 

Section L Prior to the year 1607, a period of 
one hundred and fifteen years from the discovery 
of San Salvador, by Columbus, attempts had 
been made to effect settlements in various parts 
of North America ; but no one proved success- 
ful, until the settlement at Jamestown. 

In 1606, King James I. of England, granted 
letters patent, — anexclusive right, or privilege, — 
to two companies, called the London and Ply- 
mouth Companies : by which they were author 
ized to possess the lands, in Aniorica, lying be- 
tween the 34th and 45th degrees of north lati- 
tude ; the southern part, called South Virginia, 
to the London, and the northern, called North 
Virginia, to the Plymouth Company. 

Under this patent, the London Company sent 
Capt. Christopher Newport to Virginia, Dec. 
20th, 1606, wdth a colony of one hundred and ^Yii 
persons, to commence a settlement on the island 
Roanoke,— -nov/ in North Carolina.— After a te- 
dious voyage of four months, by the circuitous 
route of the West Indies, he entered Chesapeake 
Bay, having been driven north of the place of 
his destiiiation. ^ 



22 PERIOB II....1492....1607f...SETTLEMENTS. 

Here it was concluded to land ; and, proceed- 
ing up a river, called by the Indians, Powhatan, 
but, by the colony, James River, on a beautiful 
peninsula, in May, 1607, they began the first 
permanent settlement in North Ammca, and 
called it Jamestown, 

The government of this colony was formed 
in England, by the London ('ompany. It «'on- 
sisted of a council of seven persons, appointed 
by the Company, with a president chosen by the 
council, from their number, who had two votes. 
All matters of moment were examined by this 
council, and determined by a majority. Capt. 
Newport brought over the names of this council, 
carefully sealed in a box, which w^as opened 
after their arrival. 

Among the most enterprising and useful members of this 
colony and one of its magistrates, was Capt. John Smith. As 
he acted a distinguished part in the early history of the colony 
of Virginia, a brief sketch of his life will be interesting. 

He was born in Willoiighby, in Lincolnshire, England, in 
1579. From his earliest youth, he discovered a roving and ro- 
mantic genius, and appeared irresistibly bent on extravagant 
and daring enterprises. At the age of thirteen, becoming tired 
of study, he disposed of his satchel and books, wiLh the inten- 
tion of escaping to sea. But the death of his father, just at that 
time, frustrated his plans for the present, and threw him upon 
guardians, who, to repress the waywardness of his pfenius, con- 
fined him to a coimting room. From a confinement so irk- 
some, however, he contrived to escape not long after, and, with 
ten shillings in his pocket, entered the train of a youn§; noble- 
man, travelling to France. 

On their arrival at Orleans, he received a discharge from fur- 
ther attendance upon lord Bertie, who advanced him money to 
return to England. 

Smhh had no wish, however, to return. With the money he 
had received, he visited Paris, from v/hidi he proceeded to the 
low countries, where he enlisted into the service as a soldier. 
Having continued some time in this capacity, he was induced 
to accompany a gen^eman to Scotland, who promised to recom- 
mend him to the notice of king James. Being disappointed 



PERIOD II....I492....160r....SETTLEMENTS. 25 

however in this, he returned to England, and visited the place 
of his birth. Not finding the company there that suited his ro~ 
mantk turn, he erected a booth m some vi^ood, and m the man- 
ner of a recluse, retired from society, devoting himself to the 
study of mihtary history and tactics, diverting himself, at inter- 
vals, with his horse and lance. 

Recovering about this lime a part of his father's estate, which 
had been in dispute, in i 596, he again commenced his travels, 
being then only seventeen years of age. His first stage was 
Flanders, where meeting v/ith a Frenchman, who pretended to 
be heir to a noble family, he was prevailed upon to accompany 
him to France. On their arrival at St. Valory, in Picardy, by 
the connivance of the shipmaster, the Frenchman and attend- 
ants robbed him of his effects, and succeeded in making their 
escape. 

Eager to pursue his travels, he endeavoured to procure a 
place on board a man of war. In one of his rambles, search- 
ing for a ship that would receive him, he accidently met one o*' 
the villains concerned in robbing him. Without exchanging a 
word, they both instantly drew their swords. The contest was 
severe, but Smith succeeded in wounding and disarming his an- 
tagonist, and obliged him to confess his guilt. After this ren- 
counter, having received pecuniary assistance from an acquaint- 
ance, the earl of Ployer, he travelled along the French coast to 
Bayonne, and thence crossed to Marseilles, visiting and observ- 
ing every thing in his course, which had reference to naval or 
military architecture. 

At Marseilles he embarked for Italy in company with a num- 
ber of pilgrims. But here also new troubles awaited him. 
During the voyage, a tempest arising, the ship was forced into 
Toulon, after leaving which, contrary winds so impeded their 
progress, that in a fit of rage, the pilgrims, imputing their il) 
fortune to the presence of a heretic, threw him into the sea- 
Being a good swimmer, he was enabled to reach the island 
of St. Mary, off Nice, at no great distance, wher^ he was taken 
on board a ship, in which, altering his course, he sailed 
to Alexandria, in Egypt, and thence coasted the^ Levant 
Having spent some time m this region of counti y, he sailed on 
his return, and on leaving the ship received about two thousand 
dollars, as his portion of a rich prize, which they had taken dur- 
ing the V oyage. 

Smith landed at Antibes. He now travelled through Italy, 
crossed the Adriatic, and passed into Stirria, to the seat of 
Ferdinand archduke of Austria. The emperor being at that 
time at war witk the Turks, he entered his «rmy as a vdun- 
tiwr 



24 PERIOD n....l492....1607....SETTLEMENTS. 

By means of his valour and ingenuity, aided by his military 
knowledge and experience, he soon distinguished himself, and 
was advanced to the command of a company, consisting of two 
hundred and fifty horsemen, in the regiment of count Meldrick, 
a nobleman of Transylvania. 

The regiment in which he served was engaged in several ha- 
zardous enterprises, in which Smith exhibited a bravery admired 
by all the army, and when Meldrick left the imperial service for 
that of his native prince, Smith followed. 

At the siege of Regal he was destined to new adventures. 
The Ottora'ans deriding the slow advance of the Transylvania 
army, the lord Turbisha despatched a messenger with a chal- 
lenge, that for the diversion of'the ladies of the place, he would 
fight any captain of the christian troops. 

The honour of accepting this challenge was determined by 
t3t, and fell on Smith. At the time appointed the two cham- 
pions appeared in the field on horseback, and in the presence of 
the armies, and of the ladies of the insulting Ottoman, rushed 
impetuously to the attack. A short, but desperate conflict en- 
sued, at the end of which Smith was seen bearing the head of 
the lifeless Turbisha in triumph to his general. 

The fall of the chief filled his friend Crualgo with indignation, 
and roused him to avenge his death. Smith accordingly soon 
after received a challenge from him, which he did not hesitate 
to accept, and the two exasperated combatants, upon their 
charjrers, fell with desperate fury upon each other. Victory 
again followed the faulchion of Smith, who sent the Turk head- 
long to the ground. 

It was now the turn of Smith to make the advance. He de- 
spatched a message therefore to the Turkish ladies, that if they 
were desirous of more diversion of a similar kind, they should 
be welcome to his head, in case their third champion could 
take it. 

Bonamalgro tendered his services, and haughtily accepted the 
Christian's challenge. When the day arrived the spectators as- 
sembled, and the combatants entered the field. It v/as an hour 
of deep anxiety to all ; as the horsemen approached, a deathless 
silence pervaded th^ multitude. A blow from the sabre of the 
Turk brought Smith to the ground, and for a moment it seemed , 
as if the deed of death was done. Smith however was only 
stunned. He rose like a Hon, when he shakes the dew from his 
mane for the fi^ht, and vaulting into his saddle, made his faul- 
chion '^ shed fast atonement for its first delay." It is hardly 
ncces-^ary to add, that the head of Bonamalgro was added to the 
number. 

Smith was received with transi)orts of iov by the prince oT 



PERIOD II....1492....16§7....SETTLEMENTS. 55 

Transylvania, who after the capture of the place, presented him 
with his picture set in gold, granted him a pension of three hun- 
dred ducats a year, and conferred on him a coat of arms, bear- 
ing three Turk's heads in a shield. 

In a subsequent battle between the Transylvanian army, and 
a body of Turks and Tartars, the lormer was defeated, with a 
loss of many killed and wounded. Among the wounded was 
the gallant Smith. His dress bespoke his consequence, and he 
was treated kindly. On his recovery from his wounds he was 
sold to the Basha Bogul, who sent him as a present to his mis- 
tress at Constantinople, assuring her that he was a Bohemian 
nobleman, whom he had conquered, and whom he now present 
ed to her as her slave. 

The present proved more acceptable to the lady than her lord 
intended. As she understood Italian, in that language Smith 
informed her of his country and quality, and by his singular ad- 
dress, and engaging manners, won the aflection of her heart. 

Designing to secure him to herself, but fearing lest some mis- 
fortune should befall him, she sent him to her brother, a bashaw, 
on the borders of the sea of Asoph, with a direction that he 
should be initiated into the manners and language, as well as 
the religion of the Tartars. 

From the terms of her letter, her brother suspected her de- 
sign, and resolved to disappoint her. Immediately after Smith's 
arrival, therefore, he ordered him to be stripped, his head and 
beard to be shaven, and with an iron collar about his neck, and 
a dress of hair cloth, he was driven forth to labour among some 
christian slaves. 

The circumstances of Smith were now peculiarly afflicting. 
He could indulge no hope, except from the attachment of his 
mistress, but as her distance was great, it was improbable that 
she would soon b<^come acquainted with the story of his misfor- 
tunes. 

In the midst of his distress, an opportunity to escape present- 
ed itself, but under circumstances, which, to a person of a less 
adventurous spirit, would have served only to heighten this dis- 
tress. His employment was tlneshing, at the distance of a league 
from the residence of the bashaw, who daily visited him, but 
treated him witli rigorous severity, and in fits of anger even 
abused him with blows. This last was treatment to which tlic 
independent spirit of Smith could not submit. Watching a fa- 
vourable opportunity, on an occasion of the tyrant's visit, and 
when his attendants were absent, he levelled his threshing in- 
strument at him, and laid him in the dust. 

He then hastily filled a bag with grain, and mouiiting the 
bashaw's horse, put himself upon fortune. Directing nis course 

3 



26 PERIOD II....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

towards a desert, he entered its recesses, and continuing to con- 
ceal himself in its obscurities for several days, at length made his 
escape. In sixteen days he arrived at Exapolis on the river 
Don, where meeting with the Russian garrison, the commander 
treated him kindly, and gave him letters of recommendation to 
other commanders in that region. 

He now travelled through a part of Russia, and Poland, and 
at length reached his friends in Transylvania. At Leipsic he 
enjoyed the pleasure of meeting his colonel count Meldrick, and 
Sigismund, prince of Transylvania, who presented him with 
fifteen hundred ducats. His fortune being thus in a measure re- 
paired, he travelled througli Germany, France and Spain, and 
having visited the kingdom of Morocco, returned once more to 
England. 

Such is a rapid view of the life of this interesting adventurer, 
down to his arrival in his native land- At this time the ^^^ttle- 
ment of America was occupjang the attention of many distin- 
guished men in England. The life of Smith, united to his fond- 
ness for enterprises of danger and difficulty, had prepareci him 
CO embark with zeal m a project so novel and sublime as that 
of exploring the wilds of a newly discovered continent. 

He was soon attached to the expedition, about to sail under 
Newport, and wa;?: appointed one of the magistrates of the colo- 
ny sent over at that time. Before the arrival of the colony, his 
colleagues in office becoming jealous of his influence, arrested 
him, on the absurd charge that he designed to murder the coun- 
cil, usurp the government; and make himself king of Virginia. 
He was therefore rigorously confined during the remainder of the 
voyage. 

On their arrival in the country he was liberated, but could 
not obtain a trial. althou<jh in the tone of conscious integrity, 
he repeatedly demanded it. The infant colony was soon in- 
volved in perplexity and danger Notwithstanding Smith had 
been calumniated, and his honour deeply wounded, his was not 
the spirit to '-emain idle when his services were needed. Nobly 
disdaining revenge, he offered his assistance.^ and by his talents, 
experience, and indefatigable zeal, furnished important aid to 
the infant colony. 

Continuing to assert his innocence, and to demand a trial, 
the time at length arrived when his enemies could postpone it 
no longer. After a fair hearing of the case, he was honourably 
acquitted of the charges alleged against him, and soon after took 
his seat in the council. 

The affairs of the colony becoming more settled, the active 
spirit of Smith prompted him to explore the neighbouring coun- 
try. In an attempt to ascertain tlip source of ClMckahoming ri- 



PERIOD II 1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 27 

ver, he ascended in a barge as far as the stream was uninterrupt- 
ed. Designing to proceed still further, he left the barge in ihe 
keeping of the crew, with strict injunctions on no account to leave 
her, and with two Englishmen, and two Indians left the party. 
But no sooner was he out of view, than the crew, impatient of 
restraint, repaired on board the barge, and proceeding some dis- 
tance down the stream, landed at a place where a body of In- 
dians lay m ambush, by whom they were seized. 

By means of the crew, the rout of Smith was ascertained, and 
a party of Indians were immediately despatched to take him. On 
coming up with him, they tired, killed the EngUshmen, and 
wounded himself. With great piesence of mind, he now tied his 
iinhan guide to his left arm, as a shield from the enemies' ar- 
rows, while with his musket he despatched three of the most for- 
H'ard of the assailants^ 

In this manner he continued to retreat towards his canoe, 
while the Indians, struck with admiration of his bravery follow- 
ed with jespectful caution Unfortunately coming to a sunken 
spot tilled with mire, while engrossed with eyeing his pursuers, 
he sunk so deep as to be unable to extricate himself, and was 
forced to surrender. 

Fruitful m expedients, to avert immediate death, he presented 
an ivory compass to the chief, whose attention was arrestfd by 
the vibrations of the n<^edle. Taking advantage of the impres- 
sion which he had thus made, partly by signs, and partly by 
language, he excited their wonder still more by telling them of 
Its singular powers 

Their wonder however seemed soon to abate, and their atten- 
tion returned to their prisoner. He was iK)w bound, and tied to 
a tree^ and the savages were preparing to direct their arrows at 
his breast. At thi? instant the chief, holding up the compass, 
they laid down their arms, and led him in triumph to Powhatan 
their king. 

Powhatan and his council doomed him to death, as a man 
whose courage and genius were peculiarly dangerous to the In- 
dians. Preparations were accordingly made, and when the time 
arrived, Smith was led out to execution. His head was laid up- 
on a stone, and a club presented to Powhatan, who himself 
claimed the honour of becoming the executioner. Tke savages 
in silence were circling round, and the giant arm of Powhatan 
had already raised the club to strike the fatal blow, when to his 
astonishment the young and beautiful Pocahontas, his daughter, 
with a shriek of terror, rushed from the throng, and threw her- 
self upon the body of Smith. At the same time she cast an im' 
ploring look towards her furious but astonished father, and in 



28 PERIOD lI....i667....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

all the eloquence of mute, but impassioned sorrow, besought his 
Hie. 

The remainder of the scene was honourable to Powhatan. 
The club of the chief was still uplifted, but a father's pity had 
touched his heart, and the eye that had at first kindled with 
wrath was now fast losing its fierceness. He looked round as 
if to collect his fortitude, or perhaps to find an excuse for his 
weakness, in the pity of the attendants. A similar sympathy 
had melted the savage throng, and seemed to join in the petition, 
which the weeping Pocahontas felt, but durst not utter, '* My 
father let the prisoner live." Powhatan raised his daughter, 
and the captive, scarcely yet assured of safety, from the earth. 

Shortly after Powhatan dismissed Capt. Smith with assur- 
ances of friendship, and the next morning, accompanied with a 
guard of twelve men, he arrived safely at Jamestown, after a 
Gaptivity of seven weeks.* 

In 1 609, circumstances having arisen to interrupt the friendly 
dispositions of Powhatan towards the colony, he plotted their 
entire destruction. His design was to attack them unapprised, 
and to cut them off" at a blow. 

In a dark and stormy night, the heroic Pocahontas hastened 
alone to Jamestown, and disclosed the inhuman plot of her fa- 
ther. The colony were thus put on their guard, and their ruin 
averted. 

It may be interesting to add concerning Pocahontas, that some 
time after this she was married to an English gentleman, by the 
nanft of Rolfe, with whom she visited England. She embraced 
the Christian religion, and was baptized by the name of Rebecca. 
She left one son, who had several daughters, the descendants of 
whom inherited her lands in Virginia, and are among the most 
respectable families in that State. 

Section II. In the early part of this year, 
1609, the London Company surrendered their 
rights to the king, and obtained a new charter. 
Under this charter Thomas West, Lord Dela- 
ware, was appointed governour for life. 

Towards the close of the year, the colony at Jamestown, 
amounting to five hundred inhabitants, was reduced in six 
months, by pestilence, to sixty. Disheartened by this fearful ca- 
lamity, they resolved to leave the country, and return to England. 
They therefore embarked on board some vessels, just arrived 
from Bermuda ; but meeting lord Delaware, the new governour, 



♦ Burk's Virginia. 



PERIOD II....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 29 

with one hundred and eighty men and provisions, they returned 
with them to their settlement, and the affairs of the colony again 
began to pjosper. 

Section III. In 1614, some Dutch adventur- 
ers built a fort at Albany, on Hudson's river. 
This commenced the settlement, and laid the 
foundation of that city. The next year, a fort 
was built, and a settlement begun, by the Dutch, 
on the Island of Manhattan, now New- York. 

Hudson's river derived its name from Henry Hudson, who 
entered, and gave name to it, I6O8. At this time, or according 
to others, in I6O9, he ascended the river to the place were Al- 
bany now stands. Hudson was in the service of the Dutch 
East India Company, or sold his claims to them. The Dutch, 
accordingly, took possession of the country, naming it New Ne- 
therlands. New- York, they called Nev/-Amsterdam. These 
names they retained, till the conquest of the country, by the 
Enghsh, in l664. 

Section IV. In 1614, Capt. John Smith sailed 
from England, with two ships, to America. He 
ranged the coast from Penobscot to Cape Cod. 
On his return to England, he presented a Map 
of the country to Prince Charles, who named it 
New-England. 

Six years from this, Dec. 22, 1620, a colony, 
commonly known by tlie name o^ Puritans, land- 
ed at Plymouth, in Massachusetts, and soon after 
began the jiv^t permanent settlement in New- 
England. These colonists were originally from 
England ; but were driven thence by the arm of 
persecution, for urging a more thorough reform- 
ation in the Church of England. 

They fled from England, first to Amsterdam, 
in Holland, in 1607, with their pastor, the Rev. 
Mr. Robinson. From Amsterdam, they soon af*- 
ter removed to Ley den, where they continued, 
until they embarked for America. 

Among the motives which influenced them to 
remove to America, the prospect of enjoying *' a 



30 PERIOD II....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

purer worship and a greater liberty of conscience,'^ 
wad the principal. To secure these objects, they 
were willing to become exiles from a civilized 
country, and encounter the dangers and priva- 
tions which might meet them in a wilderness. 

Having resolved on a removal to America, they concluded 
to settle on Hudson's river, and to live in a distinct body, under 
the protection of the London, or South Virginia Company. 

Having with some difficiiky obtained a grant from the Virgi- 
nia Company, they speedily prepared for the voyage, departed 
from Leyden in July, touched at South-Hampton, England, 
whence they sailed in August ; but on account of a leak in one 
of their ships, they were twice compelled to put back. 

On the sixth of September following, they finally bid adieu to 
their country, and on the ninth of November, discovered Cape 
Cod. It is said, that the master of the vessel was a Dutchman, 
and was bribed in Holland, to carry them to the north of the 
Hudson, that they might not disturb the Dutch there ; who, 
though compelled in I6l4, by Capt. Argal from Jamestown, to 
acknowledge the Sovereignty of King James, and the governour 
of Virginia, had not long after thrown off the British yoke. 

They soon perceived themselves to be beyond the limits of 
the company's patent, from which they had derived their title. 
But, winter being at hand, and fearing to encounter the dangers 
of the sea, on an unknown coast, they determined to seek a place 
©f settlement where they were. 

Before landing, '' having devoutly given thanks to God for 
iheir safe arrival, they formed themselves into a body politick," 
forty-one signing a solemn contract, according to the piovisions 
of wliich they were to be governed. Mr. John Carver was 
elected governour for one year. 

Parties were now despatched to fix upon a spot for their settle- 
ment. Several days were employed for this purpose, during 
which, a number of Indians were seen, who fled on being ap- 
proached. They also discovered baskets of corn hid in the 
sand, which served for seed the ensuing spring. 

At length, a suitable spot was selected for a settlement, and a 
house immediately erected. The colony was divided into nine- 
teen families, each of which built its own cottage. On Lord's 
day, Dec. 31, they attended public worship, for the first time 
on shore, and named the place Plymovth. 

Section V. The same month, (Nov.) that the 
Puritans arrived on the coast from England, King 
.lames I. issued a patent to the duke of Lenox, 



PERIOD n.....l607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. si 

Ferdinando Gorges, and others, styling them, 
*' The Council of Plymouth, in the county of De- 
von, for planting and governing Nev^-England 
in America." This Patent granted to them the 
territory between the 40th and 48th degrees of 
north latitude, and was the foundation of all the 
subsequent patents which divided the country. 

Section YI. In March, 1621 , the colony of Ply- 
mouth, through Governour Carver, entered into 
a league of friendship, commerce, and mutual de- 
fence with Masassoit, the great sachem of the. 
neighbouring Indians. This treaty which was 
strictly observed until the breaking out of Phillip's 
war, (a period of more than fifty years,) gave 
general peace to the colony, and laid the founda- 
tion for their intimate and amicable correspond- 
ence with the neighbouring Indian tribes. 

The person, chiefly instrumental in bringing this event to pass 
was Samosetj a sagamore of the country, laying at the distance 
of about five days journey. He was the first visitant of the co- 
lony at Plymouth, and greatly surprised the inhabitants, by call- 
ing out as he entered their village, "Welcome Englishmen! 
Welcome Englishmen !" He had conversed with the English 
fishermen who had come to the eastern coast, and had learned 
some of the language. He informed the colony that the place 
where they were settled, was called by the Indians Patitxet ; 
that five years before a plague had swept off all the natives from 
the place, so that there was neither man, woman, or child re- 
maining. Providence had thus singularly prepared the way 
for the colonies to take possession of the land, without molesting 
a single owner. 

Samoset, having been treated with hospitality by these stran- 
gers, was disposed to cultivate a further acquaintance with them ; 
and on his third visit was accompanied by Squanto, a native of 
the country, who had been carried away in l6i4, by one Hunt, 
and sold into Spain, but had been taken to London, whence he 
had returned to America. 

They informed the English that Masassoit, the greatest sa- 
chem of the neighbouring Indians was near with a guard of sixty 
men. Mutual distrust prevented for some time, any advances 
from either side. But Squanto, who was at length sent to Ma- 
sassoit, returned, saying that the sachem wished the EngUsdi to 



32 PERIOD n,...I607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

send some one to confer with him. Mr. Edward Winslow was 
accordingly sent, bearing suitable presents to the chief. These 
proving acceptable, Masassoit left Mr. Winslow in the custody 
of his men as a hostage, and ventured to the English, by whom 
he was hospitably entertained, and with whom he concluded the 
treaty already noticed. 

Section VII. In 1619, a governour general 
©f the Virginia Colony arrived from England, 
with instructions to convoke a colonial legisla- 
ture. To this assembly, eleven corporations, 
or towns, sent representatives, who sat with the 
governour and council, appointed by the Com- 
pany. This was the first legislature to which the 
people of America sent representatives. 

In 1621 the London Company established a 
constitutioii and form of government for the co- 
lony. The powers of this government were 
vested in a governour and two councils. One 
of these was called the council of state, to ad- 
vise and assist the governour. This council 
was to be appointed and removed by the com- 
pany. The other was called the general assem- 
bly, consisting of the council of state, and two 
burgesses, or representatives, deputed from 
each town, hundred, or plantation. This assem- 
bly met annually, and were entrusted with the 
business of framing laws for the colony, the go- 
vernour having a negative upon their proceedings. 
No laws were valid until ratified by a court of 
the company in England. 

In 1622, the Virginia Colony, which for some 
time had enjoyed great prosperity, and had re- 
ceived frequent accesvsions, experienced a stroke 
vviiich nearly proved fatal. The successor of 
Powhatan, wlio was of a proud, revengeful spirit, 
and extremely hostile to the colony, concerted a 
plan to cut them off at a blow. On the 22d of 
March, it was so far put in execution, that three 



PERIOD II....1607....1$89....SETTLKMENTS. 3S 

hundred and forty-seven of the colony, men, 
women and children, were butchered almost in 
the same instant. 

A war of extermination soon succeeded, 
which not long after was followed by a famine. 
The losses of the colony, however, which these 
calamities had brought upon them, were soon in 
a measure repaired, by the arrival of new adven- 
turers. 

Section VIII. While the Virginians were 
mourning their losses, the Plymouth colony be- 
gan to experience the distresses of famine. By 
the time their planting was finished in 1625, 
their provisions were so far exhausted, that they 
had neither bread, nor corn for three or four 
months. A drought continued from May, until 
some time in July. Under these afflictions, 
however, they appointed a day of fasting and 
prayer, to humble themselves, and to seek unto 
God. Notwithstanding their many fears, a 
plentiful harvest followed, which was suitably 
noticed by a day of thanksgiving and praise. 

Stction IX. This year, 1623, a number of 
persons from England arrived in the river Pis- 
cataqua, and began two settlements ; one at the 
mouth, at a place called Little Harbour, the other 
at a place now called Dover. — These were the 
first settlements in New-Hampshire. 

Section X, In 1624, the London Company, 
which had settled Virginia, was dissolved by an 
act of king James I. under pretext of the calami- 
ties which had befallen the colony, and the dis- 
sensions which had agitated the company. 
Their charter was taken away, and the govern- 
ment of the colony assumed by the crown. 
The king himself appointed the ^overnour, in 



34 PERIOD II....1607... 1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

whom, with twelve counsellors, the powers of 
government were vested. 

The London Company, thus dissolved, consisted of gentlemen 
of noble and dismterested views, who had expended more than 
one hundred thousand pounds of their fortunes, in this first at- 
tempt to plant an English colony in America ; and more than 
nine thousand persons had been sent from the mother country 
to people this new settlement. At the time of the dissolution of 
the company scarcely two thousand persons survived. 

Charles I. succeeding James I. in 1625, brought 
the Virginia Colony more immediately under the 
direction of the crown. L'nder this administra- 
tion, the colony suffered much for many years, 
from the severe and arbitrary restraints imposed 
upon it by the king, through the governour and 
council. 

Section XL It has been stated, that the 
lands, upon which the Plymouth colony settled, 
were granted by the crown to '' the Council of 
Plymouth," in England, in November, 1620. 
This was the same month that the Puritans had 
arrived in the country. Being apprized of this 
grant, the colony, in 1626, began to take mea- 
sures to purchase these lands. The negotiations 
for this purpose ended the next year in a patent, 
which the company granted them for one thou- 
sand eight hundred pounds sterling, with ample 
powers of government. 

The government oi the colony was at first formed and con- 
ducted according to a voluntary compact, entered into before 
landing. Till the year l624, it consisted of a governour and 
one assistant only. From this period five were annually chosen, 
the governour having a double vote. The number of a.ssistants 
was afterwards increased to seven. — The laws of the colony were 
enacted, and the affairs of government conducted, by these offi- 
cers for near twenty years. In l639, the towns m this colony, 
for the first time, sent deputies. The colony continued distinct 
near seventy years, until l691, when, by charter of William and 
Mary, it was united to the colony of Massachusetts, and the 
Province of Maine. 



PERIOD II 1607 1689....SETTLEMENTS. S5 

Sectio?i XII. In 1628, the foundation was laid 
for another colony, in New-England, by the 
name of the colony of Massachusetts Bay. 

The patent of tliis colony was granted by the Council of Ply- 
mouth, or New-England, to Sir Henry Roswell and others ; 
and conveyed to them the t< rritor^^ lyi^^g between three miles- 
north of the Merrimack, and* three miles south of Charles Ri- 
ver. 

Sir Henry Roswell and his associates, however, soon sold the 
patent to Sir Richard Saltonstall, John Endicott, and others in 
England, who were projecting: a settlement in New-England, for 
the purposes of greater religious freedom. 

The same year, John Endicott w^as sent over, 
and began the settlement of the colony of Mas- 
sachusetts Bay, at Salem, then called by the 
Indians, Naumkeak. As the patent granted to 
this colony conveyed no powers of government, 
King Charles, in 1629, granted these powers by 
charter. Six ships, furnished by the company, 
brought over four hundred persons, men, women 
and children, three hundred of whom settled at 
Salem, the remainder at Charlestown. 

During the succeeding summer, 1630, John 
Winthrop, who had been appointed governour, 
and Thomas Dudley, deputy governour, with 
one thousand five hundred people, arrived at 
Charlestown ; but owing to a mortal sickness, 
which soon after prevailed in that settlement, 
the governour and several of the planters remov- 
ed to Shaw^mut, which they named Boston. 

Governour Winthrop, and his associates, came over under 
an arrangement to trajisfer the government of this colony, from 
London to New-England, and to place it in the hands of officers 
to be elected by the freemen. This was carried into effect, and 

; the freemen continued annually to elect their officers of govern- 

I ment. 

j The colony soon experienced the distresses of mortal sickness 
and wasting famine. There was scarcely a family, in which there 
had not been a death before spring, and many of the people were 
obliged to subsist on clams, muscles, acornS; and nuts. Friday, 



Se PERIOD n....l607....iee9....SETTLEMBNT«. 

February 6, was appointed as a day of fasting ; but the day be- 
fore, a ship arriving laden with provisions, the governour, on the 
joyful occasion, appointed a day of thanksgiving throughout the 
plantations. 

Section XIIL In 1632, Charles I. granted 
a patent to Lord Baltimore, conveying to him a 
tract of country on the Chesapeake Bay, which, 
in honour of Henrietta Maria, daughter of Henry 
the great of France, he named Maryland. 

The next year, 1633, Lord Baltimore appoint- 
ed his brother, Leonard Calvert, governour of 
the province, who, with about two hundred 
planters, chiefly Roman Catholics, began a set- 
tlement in 1634, near the mouth of the Potomac, 
on the northern side. 

Emigrants soon flocked to this province from England and 
the other colonies, on account of the greater religious freedom 
enjoyed in it. 

By the patent, the proprietor, with the consent of the freemen, 
or their delegates, was authorized to make all necessary laws, not 
opposed to the laws of England ; the king did not reserve a right 
to interfere in the government of the province. This was the 
original government of the colony of Maryland, which, however, 
afterwards underwent various modifications. 

Section XIV. In 1633, the first house was 
erected in Connecticut. This was a trading 
house at Windsor, the materials of which some 
Plymouth adventurers sent in a vessel up Con- 
necticut river. 

On their arrival in the river, they found some 
Dutch, from New Amsterdam, who had previ- 
ously heard of the intended settlement at Wind- 
sor, occupying a fort, which they had erected, 
where Hartford now stands. On the appro j^ch 
of the Plymouth adventurers, the Dutch garrison 
ordered them to stop ; but the commander gal- 
lantly disregarded the order, and proceeded to 
W^indsor. 

Two years from this, 1635, about sixty men, 



PERIOD II 1607....1689....SET'I:LEMENTS. 37 

women, and children, from Newtown and Wa- 
tertown, in Massachusetts, commenced their 
journey through the wilderness to Connecticut 
river. They settled at Windsor, Wethersfield, 
and Hartford. 

The same year, John Winthrop, son of the 
governour of Massachusetts, arrived from Eng- 
land, with a commission, as governour of Con- 
necticut, under lord Say and Seal, and lord 
Brook, to whom the council of Plymouth had 
given, in March, 1631, a patent of the territory. 

Soon after Winthrop's arrival at Boston, he despatched a 
Dark of thirty tons with twenty men, to take possession of Con- 
necticut river, and to build a fort at its mouth. This was ac 
cordingly erected, and called Saybrook fort. A few days after 
their arrival, a Dutch vessel, from New jNetherlands, appeared, 
to take possession of the river ; but, as the English had already 
mounted two cannon, their landing was prevented. 

The next June, 1630, the Rev. Messrs. Hooker and Stone, 
with a number of settlers, from Dorchester and Walertown, re- 
moved to Connecticut. With no guide but a compass, they 
made their way, one hundred miles over mountains, through 
swamps and rivers. Their journey, which was on foot, lasted 
a fortnight, during which tliey lived upon the milk of their cows. 
They drove one hundred and sixty cattle. 

Section XY. This year, 1636, Roger Wil- 
liams, having been banished from the colony of 
Massachusetts in 1634, removed with his family 
to Mooshawsic and began a plantation, which 
he called Proxidevce. From this we date the 
settlement of Rhode Island. 

Williams was a minister of Salem ; on account of iieretical 
opinions, connected perhaps with errours of conduct, he was 
summoned in 1636, to appear before the General Court, and 
the ministers of the colony. Mr. Hooker was appointed to dis- 
pute with him ; but, being unable to reduce him from his er- 
rours, he was sentenced by the court to depart out of the juris- 
diction within six weeks. All the ministers but one approved 
the sentence. 

In 1 6'^R, William Coddington, who has sometimes been called 
the father of Rhode Island, with eighteen others, removed from 

4 



38 PERIOD 1I....1607....16S9....SETTLEMENTS. 

Massacha.^etts, and having purchased of the Indians, the Island 
Aqutneck, btgan a settlement on the northern part of it. Others 
folkvweci the next summer, and commenced another settlement 
on the south western side — dividing the Island into two town- 
ships, Portsmouth and Newport. They formed themselves 
into a body politick, and elected Mr. Coddington chief magis- 
trate. 

In 1640, the inhabitants of Providence agreed upon a form 
of government. Klu.de Island, so called from a fancied resem- 
blance to the ancient island of Rhodes, soon began to be extensive- 
ly settled, both en accoinn of its natural fertility, and also on ac- 
count ot the religious freedom allowed to all denominations. 

In 1644, Roger Williams visited England, as agent of the 
settlers, and obtained of the earl of Warwick, one of the Ply- 
mouth company, a free charter of incorporation for Providence 
and Rhode Island Plantations. 

In 1663, a royal charter was granted to them, by Charles II. 
This charter constituted an assembly, consisting of agovemour, 
deputy governour, and ten assistants, with the representatives 
^rom the several towns, all to be chosen by the freemen. 

Section XVI. The year 1637 is remarkable, 
in the history of Connecticut, for the war with the 
Pequots — a tribe of Indians, whose principal set- 
tlement was on a hill in the present town of Gro- 
ton. 

Pjior to this time, the Pequots had frequently annoyed the in- 
taiU colony, and in several instances had killed some of its in- 
habitants. In March of this year, the commander of Saybrook 
fort, with twelve men, was attacked by them, and three of his 
party killed. In April, another portion of this tribe assaulted 
the people of Wethersfield, as they were going to their iields to 
labour, and killed six men and three women. Two girls were 
taken captive by them, and twenty cows were killed. 

In this perilous state of the colony, a court was summoned at 
Hartford, May 1. After mature deliberation, it was determined 
that war should be commenced against the Pequots. 

Ninety men, nearly half the fencible men of the colony, were 
ordered to be raised — forty-two from Hartford— thirty from 
Windsor — and eighteen from Wethersfield. 

On the assembling of this force at Hartford, the Rev. Mr. 
H<»oker, previously to their marching, addressed them in the foZ- 
lowing wanner. 

" Fellow Soldiers, Countrymen, and Companions, you are 
this (^y assembled by the special Providence of God, you are 



PERIOD II....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 39 

not collected by wild fancy, nor ferocious passions. It is not a 
tumultuous assembly,, whose actions are abortive, or if successful 
produce only theft, rapine, rape, and murder ; crimes inconsist- 
ent with nature's light, inconsistent with a soldier's valour. You^ 
my dear hearts, were selected from your neighbours, by the godly 
fathers of the land, for your known courage, to execute such a 
work. 

" Your cause is the cause of heaven ; the enemy have blas- 
phemed your God, and slain his servants ; you are only the 
ministers of his justice. I do not pretend that your enemies are 
careless or indifferent : no, their hatred is inflamed, their lips 
thirst for blood ; they would devour you, and all the people of 
God ; but, my brave soldiers, their guilt has reached the clouds ; 
they are ripe for destruction ; their cruelty is notorious ; and 
cruelty and cowardice are always united. 

" There is nothing, therefore, to prevent your certain victory, 
but their nimble feet, their impenetrable swamps, and woods ; 
from these your small numbers will entice them, or your courage 
drive them. I now put the question — Who would not fight in 
such a cause ? fight with undaunted boldness ? Do you wish for 
more encouragement? more I give you. Riches waken the 
soldier's sword ; and though you will not obtain silver and gold, 
on the field of victory, you will secure what is infinitely more 
precious ; you will secure the liberties^ the privileges, and the 
lives of Christ's Church, in this new world. 

" You will procure safety for your affectionate wives, safety 
for your prattling, harmless, smiling babes ; you will secure all 
the blessings enjoyed by the people of God in the ordinances of 
the gospel. Distinguished was the honour conferred 'ipon Da- 
vid, for fighting the battles of the Lord ; this honour, O ye cou- 
rageous soldiers of God, is now prepared for you. You will 
now execute his vengeance on the heathen ; you will bind their 
kings in chains, and their nobles in fetters of iron. But perhaps 
some one may fear that a fatal arrow may deprive him of this 
honour. 

" Let every fahhful soldier of Jesus Christ be assured, that if 
any servant be taken away, it is merely because the honours of 
this world are too narrow for his reward ; an everlasting crown 
is set upon his head ; because the rewards of this life are insuffi- 
cient. March then with Christian courage, in the strength of 
the Lord ; march with faith in his divine promises, and soon ] 
your swords shall find your enemies ; soon they shall fall like 
leaves of the forest under your feet." 

With these troops, together with seventy river and Moheagan 
Indians, Capt. Mason, to whom the command of the expedition 
^'as given, dropped down the river Connecticut, to Saybrook 



4« PERIOD II....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

Here a plan of operations was formed. On the twenty-sixth of 
May, about the dawn of day, capt. Mason surprised Mystic, 
©ne of the principal forts of the enemy, in the present town of 
Stonington. On their near approach to the fort, a dog barked, 
and an Indian who now discovered them, cried out, " O wanux ! 
O wanux !" Englishmen, Englishmen. 

The troops instantly pressed forward and fired. The de- 
struction of the enen.y soon became terrible, but they rallied at 
length, and made a manly resistance. After a severe and pro- 
tracted conflict, capt. Mason and his troops being nearly ex- 
hausted, and victory still doubtful, he cried out to his men, wc 
must burn them ! 

At the same instant, seizing a firebrand, he applied it to a 
wigwam. The flames spread rapidly, on every side ; and as 
the sun rose upon the scene, it showed the work of destruction 
to be complete. Seventy wigwams were in ruins, and between 
five and six hundred Indians lay bleeding on the ground, or 
smouldering in the ashes. 

But though the victory was complete, the troops were now 
in great distress. Besides two killed, sixteen of their number 
were wounded. Their surgeon, medicines, and provisions, were 
on board some vessels, on their way to Pequot harbour, now 
New-London. While consulting what should be done in this 
emerge ncy, how great was their joy to descry their vessels stand- 
ing directly towards the harbour, under a prosperous wind ! 

Soon after, a detachment of nearly two hundred men, from 
Massachusetts and Plymouth, arrived to assist Connecticut, in 
prosecutmg the war. "^ / 

Sassac us, the great Sachem of the Pequots,^arid his warriours, 
were so appalled at the destruction of Mystic, that they fled to- 
wards Hudson's river. The troops pursued them as far as a 
great swamp in Fairfield, where another action took place, in 
which the Indians were entirely vanquished. 

This was followed by a treaty with the remaining Pequots, 
about two hundred in number, agreeably to which they were di- 
vided among the Narragansetts and Moheagans. 

Thus terminated a conflict which for a time was eminently 
distressing to the colonies. This event of peace was celebrat- 
ed thioughout New-England, by a day of thanksgiving and 
praise. 

Section XVII. The expedition against the 
Pequots made the English acquainted with Quin- 
napiak or New-Haven ; and the ne]^t year, 1638, 
led to the settlement of that town. This, and 



PERIOD 1I....1607.,..1689, 41 

the adjoining towns, soon after settled, went by 
the name of the colony of New-Haven. 

Among the founders of this colony was Mr. John Davenport, 
a celebrated minister of London. Theophilus Eaton, who had 
been governour of the East India Company, and Edward Hop- 
kins, a merchant of London. The unmolested enjoyment of 
civil and religious liberty was the object of theii emigration, as 
it was of most of the emigrants to this country. 

Having purchased the land of Monauguin, sachem of the 
country, whom they paid to his full satisfaction, on the 1 8th of 
April, they kept their first Sabbath in the place, under a large 
oak tree, where Mr. Davenport preached to them 

Section XVIII. The following year, January 
14, 1639, the three towns on Connecticut river, 
Windsor, Hartford, and Wethersfield, finding 
themselves without the limits of the Massachu- 
setts patent, met, and formed themselves into a 
distinct common>yealth, and adopted a constitu- 

This consthution, wn(c|i has been much admired, and which 
for more than a century and a half underwent little alteration, 
'ordained that there should annually be two general assemblies, 
one in April, the other in September. In April the officers of 
government were to be elected by the freemen, and to consist of 
governour, deputy governour, and five or six assistants The 
towns were to send deputies to the general assemblies. Under 
this constitution, the first governour was John Haynes, and 
Roger Ludlow, the first deputy governour. 

Section XIX. The example of the colony of 
Connecticut, in forming a constitution, was fol- 
lowed, the next June, by the colony of New-Ha- 
ven. Both constitutions were essentially alike. 
Theophilus Eaton was the first governour of 
the colony. 

Section XX. This same year, 1659, Sir Fer- 
dinando Gorges obtained of the crown a charter 
of all the land from Piscataqua to Sagadahock, 
calling the territory the Province of Maine. He 
formed a system of government for the province, 
but it did not flourish. In 1051, or 1652, it was 

4 * 



42 PERIOD II....1607....1689..„SETTLEMENTS. 

taken under the jurisdiction of Massachusetts, 
by request of the people of Maine. 

The Plymouth colonists had obtained a patent for land lying 
on the Keiinebeck river in l628, and had erected a house there 
for trade. Scattered settlenrjeiits were made in the territory 
some years afterward ; but the history of their progress is ob- 
scure. 

Section XXI. The next event of importance 
in our history is the union of the colonies of 
Massachusetts, Fiymouth, Connecticut, and New- 
Haven, by the name of The United Colonies 
OF New-England. The articles of this confede- 
ration, which had been agitated for three years, 
were signed May 19th, 1643. 

To this union the colonies were strongly urged 
by a sense of common danger from the Indians, 
(a general combination of whom was expected,) 
and by the claims and encroachments of the 
Dutch, at Manhattan, New-York. 

By these articles of union, each colony retained its distinct 
and separate government. — No two colonies might be united into 
one, nor any colony be received into the confederacy, without 
the consent of the whole. Each colony was to elect two Com- 
missioners, who should meet annually, and at other times if ne- 
cessary, and should determine " all affairs of war and peace, of 
leagues, aids, charges, and numbers of men for war,'" &c. 
Upon notice that any colony was invaded, the rest were imme- 
diately to despatch assistance. 

This union subsisted move than fort}^ years, until the charters 
of the colonies were either taken away, or suspended by James 
II. and his commissioners. 

In 16^8, Rhode-Island petitioned to be admitted to this con- 
federacy, but was denied, unless she would be incorporated with 
Plymouth, and lose her separate existence. — This she refused, 
and was consequently excluded. 

The efiects of this union on tlie New-England colonies were 
in a high decree salutary. On the completion of it, several In- 
dian Sachems, among whom were the chiefs of the Narraganset 
and Moheagan tribes, came in, and submitted to the English go- 
vernment. The colonies also became formidable, by means of 
it, to the Dutch. This union was also made subservient to the 
civil and religious improvement of the Indians, 



PERIOD II....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 43 

Prior to this period, Mr. Mayhew and the devoted Elliot had 
made considerable progiess towards civilizing the Indians, and 
converting them to Christianity. They had learned the Indian 
language, and had preached to the Indians in their own tongue. 

Upon a report in England of what these men had done, a so- 
ciety was formed for propagating the Gospel among the Indians, 
which sent over books, money, &c. to be distributed by the 
Commissioners of the United Colonies. 

The Indians at first made a great opposition to Christianity ; 
and such was their aversion to it, that had they not been over- 
awed by the United Colonies, it is probable they would have put 
to de?th those among them who embraced it. — Such, however, 
were the ardour, energy, and ability of Messrs. Mayhew and 
Elliot, aided by the countenance and support of government, and 
blessed by Providence, that in I66O, there were ten towns of con- 
verted Indians in Massachusetts. In l6y5, there were not less 
than three thousand adult Indian converts, in the islands of 
Martha's Vineyard, and' Nantucket. 

Section XXII. 1662. The colony of Connec- 
ticut, having petitioned king Charles II. through 
governour Winthrop, for a cliarter of incorpora- 
tion, his majesty granted their request, and issued 
his letters patent, April 2d, constituting them a 
body corporate and politick, by the name of The 
Governour and Company of the Engluh Colo- 
ny of Connecticut in New-England in America. 

The territory granted to lord Say and Seal, and lord Brook, 
in 1()31, and confirmed by this charter to Connecticut, was 
bounded east by Narraganset river; south by Long-Island 
sound ; north by Massachusetts ; and extended west to the Fa- 
cifick Ocean. 

The charter ol Connecticut ordained that there should be a 
governour, d^^puty governour, and twelve assistants to be chosen 
annually. The charter instituted two general assemblies for 
each year, to consist of the above officers and deputies from the 
towns : the former to compose the upper, and the deputies the 
lower house. The government under the charter was essentially 
the same with that which the ]3eople had themselves adopted, 
in 163'), and continued to be the constitution of the colony and 
State of Connecticut until the year 1818. 

This charter included the colony of New-Haven ; but not be- 
ing agreeable to that colony, it did not unite with Connecticut 
until two years after. The granting of a charter to Connecticut 



44 PERIOD 1I,...1607...1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

was followed the next year, 1663, by a similar grant to Rhode- 
Island and Providence Plantations, as already noticed. 

Section XXIIL The settlement of the Dutch 
at Manhattan, in 1615, and their submission to 
the government of Virginia, which sent an expe- 
dition against them the same year, has already 
been mentioned. But the succeeding governour 
threw off the English yoke, and from that time 
they had remained independent of the English. 
— Belonging to a different nation, and having 
different interests, they availed themselves of 
every occasion to perplex and annoy the New- 
England colonies. They even laid claim to a 
considerable part of Connecticut. 

At length, king Charles II. sensible of the 
evil consequences of having a Dutch colony in 
the heart of his American dominions, determined 
to dispossess them. Accordingly in the year 
1664, he made a grant of the whole country, in- 
cluding in it the several colonies of New- York, 
New-Jersey, and Delaware, to his brother, the 
duke of York and Albany. 

An expedition was soon fitted out against the 
Dutch, under command of Col. Richard Nichols, 
who shortly after appeared at Manhattan, and 
demanded a surrender. To this demand, the 
Dutch governour, Stuyvesant, yiekled Aug. 27, 
being unprepared for defence. — Thus the whole 
country passed into the hands of the English. 
In honour of the duke, the two principal Dutch 
settlements were now named New-York and 
Albany. 

Section XXIV. A short time previous to the 
surrender of the Dutch, the duke of York con- 
veyed to lord Berkley, and Sir Greorge Carteret, 
the territory of New- Jersey. This name was 



PERIOD II....J607 1689..., SETTLEMENTS. 45 

given it, in compliment to Carteret, who had been 
governour of the Isle of Jersey, in the English 
Channel. Soon after the grant, but before it 
was known, three persons from Long-Island pur- 
chased of the natives a tract which was called 
Elizabethtown grant, and a settlement was be- 
gun at Elizabethtown. In a few years, emigrants 
from various parts of Europe settled Newark, 
Middletown, and other places. 

The first settlement in New-Jersey was made three or four 
years after the settlement of Plymouth in New-England, by some 
Dutchmen and Danes. The inhabitants were considerably nu- 
merops at the time of the surrender of the province to the Eng- 
lish government. 

The next year, 1665, Philip Carteret, who had 
been appointed governour by the proprietors, ar- 
rived at Elizabethtown, which he made the seat 
of government. He administered the government 
according to a constitution, which the proprie- 
tors had formed. 

This constitution ordained a free assembly, consisting of a 
governour, council, and representatives, the latter to be chosen 
by eac^ town. The legislative power resided in the assembly 
— th( executive in the governour and council. 

Section XXV. Delaware was also includ- 
ed in the grant to the duke of York. At this 
time it was in the hands of the Dutch, but an 
expedition was scut against it under Sir Robert 
Carr, to whom it surrended Oct. 1, 1664, soon 
after which, it was put under the authority of the 
English governour of New-York. 

Delaware was first settled in l627, by a number of Swedes 
and Fins, who at the instance of Gustavus Adolphus, king ot 
Sweden, emigrated to America. They landed at Cape Henlo- 
pen, which, on account of its beauty, they called Paradise Point ; 
the Delaware they named Swedeland Stream. 

The Dutch at New Netherlands laid claim, however, to the 
territory, and mutual contests subsisted for a long time between 
them and the Swedes. After several times changing masters, 
the territory finally surrendered to the Dutch, who held posses 



46 PERIOD II....1607.-.168S.... SETTLEMENTS. 

sion of it, at the time of the English expedition against it under 
Carr, in l664. 

Section XXVI. After the reduction of New- 
York, Col. Richard JNichols, Sir Robert Carr, 
I George Cartwright, and Samuel Maverick, 
Esqrs. entered upon the duties of a commission 
from king Charles, '' to hear and determine com- 
plaints and appeals, in all causes, as well mili- 
tary as criminal and civil," within New-England, 
and to proceed in all things for settling the peace, 
and security of the country. 

The conduct of these commissioners was ex- 
ceedingly arbitrary and offensive to the colonies. 
Under pretext of executing their commission, 
they received complaints against the colonies 
from the Indians ; required persons, against the 
consent of the people, to be admitted to the pri- 
vileges of freemen ; to chtrrch membership, and 
full communion ; heard and decided in causes 
which had already been determine(^ by the esta- 
blished courts ; and gave protection to criminals. 
After involving the colonies in great embarrass- 
ment and expense, they were at length recalled, 
and the country saved from impending ruin. 

Section XXVII. In the year 1663, the tract 
of country, extending from the 36th degree of 
north latitude to the river St. Matheo, was 
erected into a province by the name of Caro- 
lina, so called in honour of Charles IX. king 
of France, under whose patronage the coast had 
been discovered in 1563. 

This tract was conveyed, by charter of Charles 
II. King of England, at this time, to Lord Cla- 
rendon, and seven others, who were made abso- 
lute proprietors of the territory, and invested with 
ample powers to settle and govern it. Two years 
after, the charter was confirmed and enlarged, so 



PERIOD II 1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 47 

as to embrace the whole territory, now divided 
into the two Carolinas, Georgia, and the Flori- 
das. 

As early as 1650, a settlement was begun in Albemarle county, 
by planters from Virginia, and emigrants from other places. 
This settlement was placed by the proprietors, under the super- 
intendence of Sir William Berkley, governour of Virginia, who 
was instructed to visit it, and to appoint a governour and council 
of six for it. 

The attention of the proprietors was next turned to the coun- 
try south of Cape Fear, which they erected into a county by 
the name of Clarendon. This county was settled in 1665, by 
emigrants from the Island of Barbadoes. Sir John Yeamans, 
who was from that island, was appointed governour, and a 
separate government granted, similar to that of Albemarle. 

In 1669, another settlement was made still further south, at 
Port Royal, under the direction of Wilham Sayle, who was ap- 
pointed the first governour. The name of this county was Car- 
teret. Thus three distinct governments were formed in Caro- 
lina. 

In 1671, Gov. Sayle, dissatisfied with the situation of Port 
Royal, removed to the northward, and took possession of a neck 
of land between Ashley and Cooper's river. Here was laid 
the foundation of a town called Charlestown. Nine years after, 
however, the inhabitants removed to " the Oyster Point," where 
Charleston, the present capital of South Carolina, was begun. 
The place which they left went by the name of " the Old 
Town." 

In consequence of the unliealthiness of the climate, Governour 
Sayle died shortly after his removal to Old Charleston, upon 
which this colony was annexed to the government of that of 
Clarendon, under governour Yeamans, and the three govern- 
ments were reduced to two. 

During the administration of governour Sayle, a constitution, 
prepared, at the request of the proprietors, by the celebrated 
Mr. Locke, was attempted to be put in force. 

By this constitution, a president of a palatine court, to consist 
of the proprietors, was to be chosen for life. An hereditary 
nobility was to be established, consisting of landgraves and ca- 
ciques. A parliament, chosen once in two years, was to be 
held, consisting of the proprietors, of the nobility, and of repre- 
sentatives ftom each district. All were to meet in one apart- 
ment, and to have an equal voice. No business, however, could 
be proposed in parliament, until it had been debated in a grand 



48 PERIOD II....1607 ...1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

council, to consist of the governour, nobility, and deputies of 
proprietors. 

This constitution it was found impossible to reduce to prac- 
tice. Great opposition was made to it ; and in Albemarle an 
insurrection was occasioned by an attempt to enforce it. It was 
therefore at length abandoned, and the former proprietary go- 
vernment restored. This latter sort of government continued 
from 1669 to 1729, when the proprietors surrendered their thle 
and interest to the King of England. The province was now 
divided into North and South Carolina, and their governours and 
councils were appointed by the crown. 

Section XXVIII.'^ This year, 1675, began the 
memorable war in New-England, with the In- 
dians, called King Philip^s tear ,• by which the 
peace of the colonies was greatly disturbed, and 
their existence for a time seriously endangered. 

For several years previous to the opening of the war, the In- 
dians had regarded the Enghsh whh increasing jealousy. They 
saw them gTowing in numbers, and rapidly extending their set- 
tlements. At the same time their own hunting grounds were 
visibly narrowing, and their power and privileges sensibly de- 
creasing. The prospect before them was humbling to the 
haughty descendants of the original lord^ of the soil. 

The principal exciter of the Indians at this time against the 
English, was Philip, sachem of the Wampanoags, grandson and 
successor of Masassoit, who, fifty years before, had made a 
treaty with the colony of Plymouth. Philip's residence was at 
Mount Hope, Bristol, Rhode-Island. 

The immediate cause of the war was the execution of three 
Indians by the English, whom Philip had excited to murder one 
Sausaman, an Indian missionary. Sausaman, being frienc'l}' 
to the English, hi.d informed them that Philip, with several 
tribes, was plotting their destruction. 

The execution of these Indians roused the anger of Philip, 
who innnediately armed his men, and commenced hostilities. 
Their first attack was made June 24th, upon the people of 
Swanzey, in Plymouth colony, as they were returning home 
from public worship, en a day of humiliation and prayer, under 
the apprehension of the approaching war. Eight or nine per- 
sons were killed. 

The country was immediatply alarmed, and the troops of t'^p 
colony flew to the defence of Swanzey. On the 28th, a com- 
pany of horse and a company of foot, \vith one hundred and ten 
volunteers from Boston, joined the Plymouth forces at Swanzej 



PERIOD II....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 49 

The next morning an attack was made upon some of Philip's 
men, who were pursued, and five or six of them killed. 1 his 
resolute conduct of the English made a deep impression on the 
enemy. Philip, with his forces left Mount Hope the same night 
— marking his route, however, with the burning ol houses, and 
the scalping of the defenceless inhabitants. 

It being known that the Narragausets favoured the cause of 
Philip, he having sent his women and children to them for pro- 
tection, the Massachusetts forces under Capt. Hutchinson, pro*- 
ceeded forthwith into their country, either to renew a treaty 
with them, or to give them battle. Fortunately, a treaty was 
concluded, and the troops returned. 

On the 17th of July, news arrived that Philip, with his wam- 
ours, was in a swamp at Pocasset, now Tiverton. The Massa- 
chusetts and riy mouth forces immediately marched to that place, 
and the next day resolutely charged the enemy in their recesses. 
As the troops entered the swamp, the Indians continued to re- 
tire. The English in vain pursued, till the approach of night, 
whf n the commander ordered a retreat. Many of the English 
were killed, and the enemy seemed to take courage. 

]t being- impossible to encounter the Indians with advantage 
in the sw imps, it was determined to starve them out ; but Philip, 
apprehending their design, contrived to escape with his forces. 

He now fled to the Nipmucks, a tribe in Worcester county, 
Massachusetts, whom he induced to assist him. Ihis tribe had 
already commenced hostilities against the English; but, in the 
hope of reclaiming them, the governour and coarcil sent Cap- 
tains Wheeler and Hutchinson to treat with them. But the In- 
dians, having intimation of their coming, lurked in ambush for 
them, fired upon them as they approached, killed eight men, 
and mortally wounded eight more, of whom Capt. Hutchinson 
M as one.^ 

The remainder of the English fled to Quaboag, Brookfield. 
The Indians, however, closely pursued them into the town, and 
burnt every house excepting one, in which the inhabitants had 
taken refuge. This hoiise at length they surrounded. " For 
two days they continued to pour a storm of musket balls upon 
it, and although countless numbers pierced through the v/alls, 
but one person was killed. With long poles, they next thrust 
against it brands, and rags dipped in brimstone ; they shot ar- 
rows of fire ; they loaded a cart with flax and tow, and with 
long poles fastened together, they pushed it against the house. 
Destruction seemed inevitable. The house was kindling, and 
the savages stood leady to destroy the first that should open the 
door to escape. At this a wfid moment a torrent of Fain descend 
,ed, and suddenly extinguished the kindling flames." 

5 



5^ PERIOD 1I....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS 

August 4th, Major Willard came to theii relief, raised the 
siege, and destroyed a considerable number oi the assailants. 

During the month of September, liadley, Deerheld, and North- 
fieid, on Connecticut river, were attackec: ; several of the inha- 
bitants were killed, and many buildings cc .-oi med. On the 18th, 
Captain Lathrop, with several teams and eighty young men, the 
flower of the county of Essex, were sent to Deeriield to trans- 
port a quantity of grain to Hadley. On their return, stopping 
to gather grapes at iMuddy Brook, they were suddenly attacked 
by near eight hundred Indians. Resistance was in vain, and 
seventy of these young men fell be/ore the merciless enemy, and 
were buried in one grave. Captain Mosely who was at Deer- 
ield, hearing the report of the guns, hastened to the spot, and 
«rith a iew men, attacked the Indians, killed ninety-six, and 
vounded forty, losing himself but two men. 

Early in October, the Springfield Indians, who had hitherto 
}een friendly to the English, concerted a plan, with the hostile 
:ribes, to burn that town. Having, under cover of night, re- 
ceived two or three hundred of Philip's men into their fort, with 
the assistance of these, they set fire to the town. The plot, how- 
ever, was discovered so seasonably, that troops arrived from 
Westfield, in time to save the town, excepting thirty-two houses, 
already consumed. 

Soon after hostilities were commenced by Philip, the Tarren- 
teens began their depredations in New-Hampshire, and the Pro- 
vince of Maine. They robbed the boats and plundered the 
houses of the English. In September they fell on Saco, Scar- 
borough, and Kittery, killed between twenty and thirty of the 
mhabitants, and consigned their houses, barns, and mills, to the 
flames. 

Elated with these successes, ihey next advanced towards Pis- 
cataqua, committing the same outrages at Oyster river, Salmon 
Falls, Dover and Exeter. Before winter, sixty of the English, 
in that quarter, were killed, and nearly as many buildings con- 
sumed. 

Tfie Indians in those parts, however, had real ground of com- 
plaint. Some seamen, hearing it reported that Indian children 
could swim by instinct, overset the canoe of Squando, sachem 
«)f the Saco Indians, in which were his squaw and infant child. 
This act Squando could not overlook, especially as some time 
after the child died, and, as the sachem believed, on account of 
some injury that it then received. Besides this, several Indians 
had been enticed on board a vessel, carried off, and sold into 
slavery. To redress these wrongs, the Indians commenced hos 
tilities. 

Notwithstanding the Narragansets had pledged themselves by 



PERIOD II 1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 51 

their treaty, not to engage in the war against the English, it was 
discovered that they were taking part with the entmy. It was 
deemed necessary, therefore, for the safety of the colonies, early 
to check that powerful tribe. 

Accordingly, r yvernour Winslow of Plymouth^ with about 
one thousand ei^;^K hundred troops from Massachusetts and Con- 
necticut, aiA: ont ;:undred and sixty friendly Indians, commenc- 
ed their mar^h from Petty quamscot, on the 19th of Decemberj 
16/5, through a deep snow, towards the enemy, who were in a 
swamp about fifteen miles distant. 

I'he army arrived at the swamp at one in the afternoon. 
Some Indians at the edge of xhv swamp were fired upon, but 
fled. 1 he whole army now entered and pursued the Indians to 
their fortress. 

This stood on a rising ground, in the middle of the swamp. 
It was a work of great strength and labour, being composed of 
palisades, and surrounded by a hedge about sixteen feet in thick- 
ness. 

One entrance only led to the fort, through the surrounding 
thicket. Upon this the English providentially fell ; and without 
waiting to form, rushed impetuously towards the fort. The 
English captains entered first. The resistance of the Indians 
was gallant and warlike. Captains Johnson and Davenport^ 
with many of their men, fell at the entrance. At length the 
English gave back, and were obliged to retreat out of the fort. 

At this crisis, the army being on the point of a fatal repulse, 
some Connecticut men, on the opposite side of the fort, disco- 
vered a place destitute of palisades ; they instantly sprang into 
the fort, fell upon the rear of the Indians, and, aided by the rest 
of the array, after a desperate conflict, achieved a complete vic- 
tory. Six hundred wigwams were now set on fire. The scene 
was awful. Deep volumes of smoke rolled up to heaven, min- 
gling with the dying shrieks of mothers and infants, while the 
aged and infirm were consuming in the flames. 

Even at this distant period, we cannot recall this scene without 
pain, and can justify this severity of our ancestors, only by ad- 
mitting its necessity for selt-preservation. 

The Indians in the fort were estimated at four thousand ; of 
these seven hundred warriours were killed, and three hundred 
died of their wounds ; three hundred were taken prisoners, and 
as many women and children. The rest, except such as were 
consumed, fled. 

The victory of the English, complete as it was, was purchas- 
ed with blood. Six brave captains fell ; eighty of the troops 
%vere killed or mortally wounded ; and one hundred and fifty 
were wounded, who recovered. 



a2 PERIOD II....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

From this defeat, the Indians never recovered. They were 
not yet, however, effectually subdued. During the winter they 
still continued to murder and burn. The towns of Lancaster, 
Medfield, Weymouth, Groion, Springfield, Northampton, Sud- 
bury, and Marlborough, in Massachusetts, and of Warwick and 
Providence, in Rhode-Island, v/ere assaulted, and some of them 
partly, and others wholly destroyed. In March, Caplain 
Pierce, with fifty English, and twenty friendly Indians, were at- 
tacked, and every Englishman, and most of the Indians, were 
slain. In April, Captain W adsworth, marching with fifty men 
to the relief of Sudbury, was surrounded, and all either killed on 
the spot, or reserved for long and distressing tortures. 

The success of the Indians, during the winter, had been great; 
but on the return of spring the tide turned against them. The 
Narraganset country was scoured, and many of the natives were 
killed, among whom was Canonchet, their chief sachem. 

On the 12th of August, l67C, the finishing stroke was given 
to the war in the United colonies, by the death of Phihp. After 
his flight from Mount Hope, he had attempted to rouse the Mo- 
hawks against the English. To efi'ect his purpose, he killeo, at 
several times, some of that tribe, and laid it to the English. But 
his iniquity was discovered, and he was obliged hastily to flee. 
He returned at length to Mount Hope. 

Tidings cf his return were brought to Captain Church, a man 
who had been of eminent service in this war, and who was bet- 
ter able than any other person to provide against the wiles of 
i\e enemy. Capt. Cl]urch immediately proceeded to the place 
of Philip's concealment, near Mount Hope, accompanied by a 
small body of men. On his arrival, which was m the night, he 
placed his men in ambushes round the swamp, charging them 
not to move till daylight, that they might distinguish Philip, 
should he attempt to escape. Such was his confidence of suc- 
cess, that taking Major Sandford by the hand, he said, " It is 
scarcely possible that Philip should escape." At that instant, 
a bullet whistled over their heads, and a volley followed. 

The firing proceeded from Philip, and his men, who were in 
view. Perceiving his peril, the savage chief, desperately snatch- 
ed his powder horn and gun, and ran fiercely towards the spot 
where an Englishman and Indian lay concealed. — The English 
soldier levelled his gun, but it missed fire : the Indian fired, and 
shot Philip through the heart. 

Captain Church ordered him to be beheaded, and quartered. 
The Indian who executed this order, pronounced the warrioiu's 
epitaph, " You have been one very great man. You have made 
many a man afraid of you. But so big as you be, I will now 
'"hop you to pieces." 



PERIOD I1....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 53 

Thus fell a savage hero and patriot — of whose transcendant 
abilities our history furnishes melancholy evidence. — The ad 
vantage of civilized education, and a wider theatre of action^ 
might have made the name of Philip of Mount Hope, as memo- 
rable as that of Alexander, or Csesar. 

After the death of Philip, the war continued in the province 
of Maine, till the spring of 1678. But westward, the Indians 
having lost their chiefs, wigwams, and provisions, and perceiv- 
ing further contest vain, came in singly, by tens, and hundreds, 
and submitted to the English. 

Thus closed a melancholy period in the annals of New-Eng- 
land liistory ; during which, six hundred men, the flower of her 
strength, had fallen ; twelve or thirteen towns had been destroy- 
ed, and six hundred dwelling houses consumed. Every eleventh 
family was houseless, and every eleventh soldier had sunk to his 
grave. So costly was the inheritance which our fathers have 
transmitted to us. 

Section XXIX. The grant of the territory of 
New-York, by Charles IL to his brother the duke 
of York, in 1664, has already been noticed, as 
also its capture from the Dutch, the same year. 
In 1673, a war commencing between England 
and Holland, the latter sent a small fleet to New- 
York, and the town immediately surrendered. 

The following year, 1674, the war terminated, 
and a treaty was concluded between England 
and Holland. By this treaty New -York was re- 
stored to the English. To prevent controversy 
about his title to the territory, the Duke of York 
took out a new patent, and appointed Sir Ed- 
mund Andross governour, who entered upon the 
duties of his appointment, ia October of the same 
year. 

The administration of Andross, however, was 
arbitrary and severe. He admitted the people 
to no share in legislation, but ruled theni by laws, 
to which they had never given their assent. 

Connecticut also experienced the weight of his oppression and 
despotism. That part of her territory west of Connecticut ri- 
ver, although long before granted to the colony of Connecticut, 

5 * 



54 PERIOD II....1607...1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

was included in the grant fo the duke of York. By virtue of 
this grant, Andross now claimed Jurisdiction over tlie territory, 
and in July 1 675, made an attempt with an armed force, to take 
possession of Saybrook Fort. 

The governour and council of Connecticut, having notice of 
his coming, sent Capt. Bull to defend the fort. On the arrival 
of Andross at the mouth of the fiver, after making a show of 
force, he invited Capt. Bull to a conference. This was granted ; 
but no sooner had he landed, than he attempted to read his com- 
mission, and the duke's patent. This Capt. Bull firmly and 
positivel} forbid, and Sir Edmund, finding tlie colony determin- 
ed, at all events, not to submit to his government, relinquished 
his design and sailed for Long-Island. 

Section XXX. But the colonies had other trou- 
bles to experience, and other enemies to combat. 
In 1676, while the Indian war was still going on, 
complaints were made in England against the 
colonies, for violating the acts of trade. These 
acts imposed oppressive customs upon certain 
commodities, if imported from any country besides 
England, or i£ transported from one colony to 
another. The acts were considered by the co- 
lonies as unjust, impolitick, and cruel. For se- 
veral years they paid little attention to them, and 
his majesty at length required, that agents should 
be sent to England to answer in behalf of the co- 
lonies for these violations. 

By the acts of trade none of the colonies suf- 
fered more than Virginia and Maryland, their 
operation being greatly to lessen the profits on 
their tobacco trade, from whi»'h a great portion 
of iieir wealth was derived. In f.ddition to these 
sufferings, the colony of Virginia, m violation of 
chartered rights, v>^as divided, and conveyed away 
in proprietary grants. Not only uncultivated 
woodlands were thus conveyed, but also planta- 
tions, which had long been possessed, and im- 
proved according to law and charter. 

The Virginians complained, petitioned 5 remon 



PERIOD II 1607 1689....,SETTLEMENTS. 55 

strated — but without effect. Agents were sent 
to England, to lay their grievances at the foot of 
the throne, but agents were unsuccessful. At 
length their oppression became insupportable, 
and the discontent of the people broke out into 
open insurrection. 

At the head of this insurrection was place ' one Nathaniel 
Bacon, an Englishman, who soon after his arrival, had been ap- 
pointed a member of the coimcil. He was a young man of 
commanding person, and great energy and enterprise. 

The colony at this time was engaged in war with the Susque- 
hannah Indians. Bacon despatched a messenger to governom* 
Berkley, requesting a commission to go against the Indians. 
This commission the governour refused, and, at the same time, 
ordered Bacon to dismiss his men, and on penalty of being de- 
clared a rebel, to appear before himself and the council. Exas- 
perated by such treatment, Bacon, without disbandmg the rest of 
his men, proceeded in a sloop with forty of them, to Jamestown. 
Here a quarrel ensued, and Berkley illegally suspended him from 
the council. Bacon departed in a rage, with his sloop and men, 
but the governour pursued him, and adopted such measures that 
he was taken, and brought to Jamestown. 

Finding that he had dismissed Bacon from the council ille- 
gally, he ROW admitted him again, and treated him kindly. 
Soon after. Bacon renewed his importunity for a commission 
against the Indians. Being unable to effect his purpose he left 
Jamestown privately, but soon appeared again with six hundred 
volunteers, and demanded of the assembly, then sitting, the re- 
quired commission. Being overawed, the assembly advised the 
governour to grant it. But soon after Bacon had departed, the 
governour, by the same advice, issued a proclamation, denounc- 
ing him as a rebel. 

Hearing what the governour had done, Bacon, instead of 
marching against the Indians, returned to Jamestown, wreaking 
his vengeance upon all who opposed him. Governour Berkley 
fled across the l3ay to Accomack, but the spirit of rebellion had 
gone before him. He therefore found himself unable to resist 
Bacon, who now ranged the country at pleasure. 

At length the governour, with a small force, under command 
of major Robert Beverly, crossed the bay to oppose the male- 
contents. Civil war had now commenced. Jamestown was 
burnt by Bacon's followers ; various parts of the colony were 
pillaged, and the wives of those that adhered to the governour's 
party were carried to the camp of the insurgents. 



36 PERIOD 11....1607....168&....SETTLEMENTS. 

In the midst of these commotions, it pleased the Supremt 
Ruler to withdraw Bacon by a natural death. The malecon- 
tents, thus left to recover their reason, now began to disperse. 
Two of Bacon's generals surrendered, and were pardoned, and 
the people quietly returned to their homes. 

Upon this Berkley resumed the government, and peace was 
restored. This rebellion formed an era of some note in the his 
tory of Virginia, and its unhappy effects were felt for thirty years 
During its continuance, husbandry was almost entirely neglected^ 
and such havock was made among all kinds of cattle, that the 
people were threatened with distressing famine. Sir William 
Berkley, after having been forty years governour of Virginia 
returned to England, where he soon after died. 

Three years after, 1 679, lord Culpepper was sent over as go 
vernour, with certain laws prepared in conformity to the wishes 
of the ministry of England, and designed to be enacted by the 
assembly in Virginia. One of those laws provided for raising 
a revenue for the support of government. It made the duties 
perpetual, and placed them under the direction of his majesty. 
Out of the duties, Culpepper dishonestly took as his salary, two 
thousand pounds, and one hundred and sixty more for house 
rent. 

On presenting these laws to the assembly, Culpepper inform- 
ed them that in case they were passed, he had instructions to 
offer pardon to all who had been concerned in Bacon's rebellion ; 
but if not he had commissions to try and hang them as rebels, 
and a regiment of soldiers on the spot to support him. The as* 
sembly, thus threatened, passed the laws. 

Section XXXI. In the year 1676, the province 
of New-Jersey was divided into East and West 
Jersey, and continued thus divided until 1702. 
when the proprietors surrendered the govern- 
ment to the crown under Queen Anne, upon 
which the two provinces were united into one. 

The two proprietors of New-Jersey were Lord Berkley, anu 
Sir George Cartaret. In l674, lord Berkley made a conveyance 
of his half to John Fenwick, in trust for Edward Billinge, and 
his assigns. Billinge, being in debt, pre-;ented his interest in 
the province to his creditors, William Jones and others, being 
aj»pointed trustees to dispose of the lands. 

In the division which thus took place, Cartaret took East 
Jersey, the government of which he retained, and the trustees ot 
Billinge, West Jersey. The duke of York, though he had con- 
veyed away his powers of government, when he sold the pro- 



PERIOD II 1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 57 

vince to Berkley and Cartaret, in 1664, unjustly claimed West 
Jersey, as a dependency of New-York. 

Until I68O, this dependency was maintained, when the duke 
of York, after much solicitation, relinquished his claim, and re- 
stored to the proprietors, the right granted by his patent of 1 664. 
In 1682, Cartaret, disgusted whh the people, sold his right to 
East Jersey, to WiWiam Penn, and others, who immediately 
sold one half of it to the earl of Perth, and his associates. Ro- 
bert Barclay, the celebrated author of ^' the Apology for the Qua- 
kers," >vas the next year made governour of East Jersey. 

In 1686, both the Jerseys and New- York, were annexed to 
New-England, and continued so till the accession of William 
and Mary to the throne of England, in l689. '" A government 
under the proprietors of both the Jerseys, had become extremely 
disagreeable to the inhabitants : who from various causes. l.»e- 
come so uneasy, that the proprietors surrendered the governm* nt 
of East and West Jersey to the crown in 1702, which Queen 
Anne very readily accepted." 

" The two provinces were now united into one, and lord 
Cornbury was appointed governour over the united colony, and 
veceived his commission and instructions from the queen. 

'*' The freemen chose the house of representatives, consisting 
of twenty-four members, but the governour and council, consist- 
ing of twelve members, were appointed by the crown. New- 
York and New-Jersey had, till the year 1738, a common govern- 
our ; but at this time a separate governour was appointed over 
the latter province." 

Section XXXII. In 1677, a controversy which 
had subsisted for some time between the colony 
of Massachusetts and the heirs of Sir Ferdinando 
Gorges, relative to the province of Maine, was 
was settled in England, and the colony adjudged 
to Gorges' heirs. Upon this, Massachusetts pur- 
chased the title for one thousand two hundred 
pounds sterling, and the territory from that time 
till 1820, was a part of Massachusetts. 

Both the colony of Massachusetts, and the heirs of Gorges, 
claimed the province of Maine : the former by viitue of her 
patent of 1628, which was construed as including that territory 
the claim of the latter was founded upon a charter granted to 
Gorges, in 1639. 

Section XXXIII. Two years after this adjust- 
ment ; viz. in 1679, a commission was made outj- 



58 PERIOD II 1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

by order of Charles II. for the separation of New- 
Hampshire from the jurisdiction of Massachu- 
setts, and its erection into a royal province. The 
form of government sent over by the king, or- 
dained a president and council to govern the 
province, with an assembly. &c. The assembly 
to be chosen by the people ; the president and 
council to be appointed by the crown. 

In 1629, the Plymouth company granted to John Mason thf 
territory called New Hampshire. About the year 1640, th<- 
settlements now being considerable, the patent holders agreed 
to assign their right of jurisdiction to Massachusetts. The colo- 
ny of New-Hampshire, therefore, remained under the govern 
ment of Massachusetts, until it was separated by the king's com- 
mission, in 1679. 

The first legislative assembly, under the above commission 
was convened March I6, I68O, when th.- colony of New-Hamp- 
shire was declared to be independent of Tviassachusetts. This 
separation, however, was disagreeable to uiost of the people ; for 
near forty years they had enjoyed under Massachusetts the pri- 
vilege of choosing their own rulers, and had derived great peace 
and harmony from an impartial government. Nor did this pro- 
vince long enjoy tranquillity. Mason, grandson of the Mason to 
whom New-Hampshire had been originally gr:inted, came over the 
next year, and demanded, by virtue of his claims to the soil, a 
seat in the council. This being granted, he soon after returned 
to England, and surrendered a part of his claims to the king^ 
and mortgaged the remainder to Edward Cranfield, who was 
appointed lieutenant governour, and shortly after repaired tc 
New-Hampshire. 

It is necessary to add, that the Rev, Mr. Wheelright~ant 
others, in l629, the same year that the grant was made to Ma 
son by the Plymouth company, bought of the Indians a larg«. 
tract of land in New-Hampshire. The same land was, there 
fore, claimed under both these grants, and the foundation thus 
laid of serious disputes in the colony. 

Cranfield, finding it for his interest to favour the claim of Ma 
son to the province, soon called upon the inhabitants to take then 
leases under him. Suits were instituted against all the land- 
holders who neglected this call, and the jurors being selected by 
Cranfield, and interested in the result, uniformly gave judgment 
against them. 

Under these oppressions, the people despatched an agent, 
with comolaints to his majesty; against the governour. After 



PERIOD II 1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 5*? 

a hearing by the lords of trade, the iniquitous conduct of Cran- 
field was represented to the king, who recalled him. 

It may be proper tv) add, that the above controversy about 
tAe claims of Mason continued long to disturb the peace of the 
province, and was not finally terminated until the death of 
Samuel Allen, in 1715, to whom the heirs of Mason had sold 
their claim for seven hundred and filty pounds ; upon his de- 
mise, no one appeared to renew tlie claims, and the question 
dropped. 

Section XXXIY. In 1681, King Charles IL 
granted to William Penn, son of Admiral Penn, 
in consideration of debts due the latter, for ser- 
vices done to the crown, the territory of Pennsyl- 
vania, so called after Penn himself. 

This patent encroached on the territory of Lord Baltimore 
in Maryland, one whole degree, or sixty-nme miles and a half; 
and on the north, nearly three hundred miles, across the whole 
territory conveyed to Connecticut in 1631,* and confirmed by 
the royal charter of 1662. Hence arose contentions between 
the colonies of Pennsylvania and Connecticut, about boundaries, 
that were not settled till a century after. Within a short time 
from the date of the grant by king Charles to Penn, two other 
conveyances were made to him by the duke of York. One was 
a bill of sale of New-Castle, and a territory of twelve miles 
around it. The other was a bill granting a tract south of the 
former, as far as Cape Henlopen. These two deeds embraced 
the whole state of Delaware. At this time, Delaware was di- 
vided into three counties, which, in 1662, were annexed to 
Pennsylvania, although they had a separate assembly, in which 
the governour of Pennsylvania presided. 

The patent of king Charles to Penn provided for the king's 
sovereignty, and for obedience to British acts, regarding com- 
merce. It gave power to the proprietor to assemble the freemen, 
or their delegates, as he should judge most convenient; for 
levying moneys and enacting laws, not contrary to the laws of 
England. 

In May, 168I, Penn sent one Markham, with a few others, 
to take possession, and prepare for a settlement. The next year, 
Penn published a form of government, by which the supreme 
power was lodged in a general assembly, to consist of a govern- 



* See page 34, where the boundaries of the territory granted to Confiec- 
ticut are given. 



60 PERIOD II....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

our, council, and house of delegates. The council and house to 
be chosen by the freemen. The proprietor and governour to 
preside, and to have a treble voice in the council, which was to 
consist of seventy-two members. 

It was also agreed, that every person of good moral character, 
professing his faith in Christ, should be a freeman, and capable 
of holding any office ; and that none who believed in one God, 
should be molested in his rehgion, or be compelled to attend, or 
maintain religious worship. 

In October, Penn, with two thousand planters, mostly Quakers, 
arrived at New-Castle. In December, he convoked an assem- 
bly ; but so few delegates appearing, he ordered, that instead of 
seventy-two, three members only should constitute the council^ 
and nine the house of assembly. 

Penn now entered into a treaty with the Indians, of whom he 
purchased large tracts of territory ; at the same time, he com- 
menced the city of Philadelphia, which, in one year, increased to 
a hundred houses and cottages. 

Pennsylvania had a more rapid and prosperous settlement 
than any of the other colonies. This was doubtless owing part- 
ly to its healthful climate and fruitful soil, partly to the fact, 
that the great obstacles of settlement had been overcome by the 
other colonies, and partly to the religious tolerance, mildness, 
and equity, which characterized its laws, and their administra- 
tion. 

In 1683, Penn, at the request of the freemen, granted them a 
new charter, by which eighteen persons were to form the coun- 
cil, and thirty-six the assembly. The next year, Penn himself 
returned to England. 

The lasting prosperity of Penns34vania, the foundation of which 
must be traced to his wisdom and benevolence, is an eloquent 
euiogium upon his character. 

Sectioji XXXV. In the year 1684, June 18, 
an event highly interesting to the colony of Mas- 
sachusetts took place in England. This was a 
decision in the high court of chancery, that she 
had forfeited her charter, and that henceforth 
her government should be placed in the hands of 
the king. 

The person chiefly iiistrumentai in bringing about this event 
was Edmund Randolph, a man who had long been the enemy 
of the colonies, and who, for several years, had filled the ears 
of the king with complaints against them for violating the acts 
of trade. 



PERIOD II ie07....1689....SETTLEMENT9. til 

To answer to these complaints, Massachusetts repeatedly 
incurred the expense of sending agents to England, and ol main- 
taining them there ; but his majesty would accept of no con- 
ditions, short of a surrender of her charter. As she would not 
make this surrender voluntarily, it was violently wrested from 
her. 

Before king Charles had time to adjust the af- 
fairs of the colony he died, and was succeeded 
by James II. Soon after his accession, similar 
proceedings took place against the other colonies 
Rhode -Island submitted, and gave up her char 
ter, Plymouth sent a copy of her charter to the 
king, with a humble petition that he would re- 
store it. Connecticut voted an address to his 
majesty, in which she prayed him to recall the 
writ that had been filed against her, and request- 
ed the continuance of her charter. 

The petitions and remonstrances of the colo- 
nies were, however, of no avail. Both the heart 
and hand of the king were manifestly against 
them. After all their hardships and dangers in 
settling a wilderness, they had no other prospect 
before them than the destruction of their dearest 
rights, and no better security of life, liberty, and 
p operty, than the v^^apricious will of a tyrant. 

In pursuance of this cruel policy towards the 
colonies, two years after the charter of Massachu- 
setts was vacated, king James commissioned 
and sent out Sir Edmund Andross as governour 
of all New-England, Plymouth excepted. He 
arrived at Boston, Dec. 20, 1686. 

The commencement of his administration was 
comparatively auspicious. In a few months, 
however, the fair prospect was changed. Among 
other arbitrary acts, restraints were laid upon 
the freedom of the press, and marriage contracts. 
The liberty to worship in the congregational 
6 



62 PERIOD II....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

way was threatened, and the fees of all officers 
of government were exorbitantly and oppressive- 
ly enhanced. 

In Octoberj Sir Edmund, and suite, with a guard of about 
sixty regular troops, went to Hartford, where the assembly of 
Connecticut was in session. He entered the house of the as- 
St.mbly, demanded the charter of Connecticut, and declared the 
colonial government to be dissolved. 

Extremely reluctant to surrender the charter, the assemb y 
rntentionaily protracted Us debates till evening, when the char 
fer was brought in, and laid on the table. — Upon a preconcerted 
signal, the lights were at once extinguished, and a Capt. Wads- 
ivorth, seizing the charter, hastened away under cover of night, 
4nd secreted it in the hollow of an oak. The candles, which 
nad been extinguished, were soon relighted without disorder ; 
tiui the chi^rter had disappeared. Sir Edmund, however, as- 
^umed the government, and the records of the colony were 
Close i. 

1 he ce ndition of the New-England colonies 
VvT.s now distressing, and as the administration 
oF Af]tdros8 was becoming still more severe and 
oppressive, the future seemed not to promise al- 
leviation. But Providence was invisibly prepar- 
ing the wfiy for their relief Nov. 5th, 1688, 
William, PMnce of Orange, who married Mary, 
daughter of James II. landed at Torbay, in Eng- 
land, and, compelling James II. to leave the 
kingdom, atisumed the crown, being proclaim- 
ed Feb. Ifith, 1689, to the general joy of the 
nation 



Section XXXVI. jWanuet.^ of tflt ®0^ 

lOllij^t^* I" the colonies of North America, 
at the close of this period, three varieties of cha- 
racter might be distinguished. In New- England, 
th ^strict puritanical notions of the people wrought 
a correspondent austerity upon the manners of 
society. Placing implicit faith in the Scriptures, 
they moulded their government, and shaped pri- 
vate character and morals upon a severe and li- 
teral construction of them. They were devout 
— patriotic— industrious — ^and public spirited ; 
and though of a grave, reflecting exterior, they 
often showed that shrewd inquisitiveness and 
keen relish of a jest, which are still character- 
istic of the New-Englanders. 

The laws of the colonies throw some light on the views and 
manners of the people. As examples, in 1639, the drinking oi 
healths was prohibited by law in Massachusetts. In 1651, the 
legislature of that colony prohibited all persons whose '^ estate 
did not exceed two hundred pounds, from wearing any gold or 
silver lace, or any bone lace above two shillings per yard P The 
law authorized the selectmen to take notice of the costliness and 
fashion of the " apparel of the people, especially in the wearing 
of ribands and great boots." The New-Haven colony, in 1639, 
resolved that they would be governed by the rules of Scripture ; 
and that church members onl}' should act in the civil affairs of 
the Plantation. 

Tn 1647, the colony of Connecticut expressed their disappro- 
bation of the use of tobacco, by an act of assembly, in which it 
was ordered, " that no person under the age of twenty years, nor 
any other that hath already accustomed himself to tlie use thereof, 
shall take any tobacco, until he shall have brought a certificate 
from under the hand of some who are approved for knowledge 
and skill in physic, that it is useful for him ; and also that he 
hath received a license from the court for the same. All others, 
who had addicted themselves to the use of tobacco, were, by the 
same court, prohibited taking it in any company, or at their la- 
bours, or on their travels, unless they were ten milfj, at least 
from any house, or more than once a day, though not in com- 



64 PERIOD II 1607 1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

pany, on pain of a fine of sixpence for each time ; to be proved 
by one substantial witness. The constable in each town to 
make presentment of such transgressions to the particular court, 
and upon conviction, the fine to be paid without gainsaying." 

In the Colon)/ of New-York, during this period, the manners 
of the colonists were strictly Dutch — with no other modifications 
than the privations of a new country, and the few English 
among them, necessarily effected. The same steadfast pursuit 
of wealth ; the same plodding industry ; the same dress, air, and 
physiognomy, which are given as characteristic of Holland, 
"nere equally characteristic of the inhabitants of New-Amster- 
dam. 

In Virginia, the manners of the colonists were 
those of the less rigid English, rendered still 
more free and voluptuous by the influence of a 
softer climate and a more prolific soil. 

Stith says of the first settlers of this colony, that some emi- 
grated ^^ to escape a worse fate at home ;" others, it is said, 
sought to repair fortunes by emigration, which had been ruined 
by excess. Many persons, however, of high character, were 
among the emigrants, and amidst the licentiousness of the Vir- 
ghiian colony were found, at the close of this period, the seeds 
of that frankness, hospitality, taste, and refinement, which dis- 
tinguish the people of the South at this day. 

Other nhtional peculiarities might be noticed, as those of the 
Fins in Delaware, those of the Quakers in Pennsylvania, &c. ; 
but at this period they were too limited to require a distinct no- 
tice in our work. 

Section XXXVII. tSrlfgC DH : The colony of 
Virginia, from its earliest existence, was exclu- 
sively devoted to the Church of England. 

For several years, its unsettled state prevented that attention 
to a religious estaidishment., which afterwards the subject receiv- 
ed. At the expiration of thirteen years from the founding of 
the colony, there were but eleven parishes, and five ministers ; 
the inhabitants of the colony did not at this time, however, much 
exceed two thousand persons. 

In 1621, the colony received a large accession to its numoers, 
and the governour and council were histructed " to take into 
special regard the service of Almighty God, and the observance 
of his divine laws ; and that the people should be trained up 
in true religion and virtue.'' At the same time, the Virginia 
Company ordered a hundred acres of land, in each of the bo- 
roughs, to be laid off for a glebe, and two hundred pounds ster- 



PERIOD II 1607 1689....SETTLEMENTS. 65 

Hng to be raised, as a standing aijd certain rev€nue out of the 
profits of each parish, to make a living : this stipend was thus 
settled — that th? minister shall receive yearly five hundred 
pounds of tobacco, and sixteen barrels of corn ; which were col 
lectively estimated at two hundred pounds sterling. In l642, 
the assembly passed a law prohibiting all, but those who had 
been ordained by English bishops, from preaching. 

In l650, during the time of governour Berkley, the parishes 
of the colony were further regulated, the religion of the church 
of England was confirmed and established, and provision made 
for the support of the ministers. The maintenance of a minister 
was put at sixteen thousand pounds of tobacco, which as valued, 
at that time, at ten shillings per hundred, was aboi:t eighty 
pounds sterling. But in addition to this, he had a dwelhng house 
and glebe ; also four hundred pounds of tobacco, or forty shil- 
lings for a funeral sermon, and two hundred pounds of tobacco, 
or twenty shillings for performing marriage by license, or five 
shillings when the banns were proclaimed. The tobacco des- 
tined for the minister was brought to him, well packed in hogs- 
heads, prepared for shipping. To raise this crop, twelve ne- 
groes were necessary. 

The special object of the New-England planters, in settling 
the country, was the enjoyment of their religious opinions, and 
the free exercise of religious worship, without molestation. 
Early attention was, therefore, paid to the gathering of churches, 
and the regulation of religion. They were Calvinists in doc- 
trine, and Congregational in discipline. 

Each church maintained its right to govern itself. They held 
to the validity of Presbyterian ordination, and the expediency 
of synods on great occasions. From the commencement, they 
used ecclesiastical councils, convoked by particular churches 
for advice, but not for the judicial determination of controver- 
sies. 

In each of the churches there was a pastor, teacher, ruling 
elder, and deacons. The pastor's office consisted principnJly 
in exhortation ; upon the teacher devolved the business of ex- 
plaining and defending the doctrines of Christianity. The busi- 
ness of the ruling elder was to assist the pastor in the govern- 
ment of the church. 

Early provision was made for the support of the ministry. 
On the arrival of the colonists of Massachusetts Bay, at Charles- 
town, before landing, a court of assistants was held, and the first 
question proposed was, How shall the ministers be maintained ? 
The court ordered that houses be built, and salaries be raised 
for them at the public charire. Their two ministers, Mr. Phil- 
lips, and Mr. Wilson, were granted a salary — The former thirty 

6* 



66 PERIOD II....1607....1689 ...SETTLEMENTS. 

pounds per annum, and the letter twenty pounds, until the ai^ 
rival of his wife. 

After the settlement of the several colonies, all persons were 
obliged by law to contribute to the support of the church. Spe- 
cial care was taken that all persons should attend public wor- 
ship. In Connecticut the law obliged them to be present on the 
Lord's day — on all days of public fasting, and thanksgiving, 
appointed by civil authority, on penalty of five shillings, for 
every instance ol neglect. 

By the year 1642, twenty-two years from the landing of the 
pilgrims at Plymouth, there had been settled in New-England, 
seventy-seven ministers, who were driven from the parent coun- 
try, fifty towns and villages had been planted, and thirty or forty 
churches gathered. 

In 1637, the first synod convened in America, sat at Newtown, 
Massachusetts, and was composed of all the teaching elders 
in the country, and messengers of the several churches. Ma- 
gistrates also were present, and spoke as they thought fit. The 
object of calling this synod was to inquire into the opinions of 
one Ann Hutchinson, a very extraordinary woman, who held 
public lectures in Boston, and taught doctrines considered here- 
tical. The whole colony was agitated and divided into parties. 
The synod, after a session of three weeks, condemned eighty-two 
erroneous opinions which had become disseminated in New 
England. 

The Dutch Reformed Church was introduced 
into New-York with the first settlers, and was 
generally embraced by the Dutch population of 
that colony. 

The Roman Catholics first came to America 
in 1682 ; they settled in Maryland, and now con- 
stitute a respectable and numerous portion of the 
inhabitants of that state. 

The first Baptist church in America was form- 
ed at Providence in 1639. Their sentiments 
spreading into Massachusetts, in 1651, the ge- 
neral court passed a law against them, inflicting 
banishment for persisting in the promulgation of 
their doctrines. 

In 1656, the Quakers making their appearance 



PERIOD II....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 67 

in Massachusetts, the legislature of that colony 
passed severe laws against them* 

No master of a vessel was allowed to bring any one of this 
sect into its jurisdiction, on penalty of one hundred pounds. 
Other stUl severer penalties were inflicted upon them in l65Y, 
such as cutting their ears, and boring their tongues with a hot 
iron, &c. They were at length banished on pain of death, and 
four, refusing to go, were executed in 1659. 

Without intending to justify these severities toward the Bap- 
tists, Quakers, and other sectaries, it is still proper to siate, as 
some apology for them, that the conduct of the leaders of these 
sects was often calculated, and no doubt designed, to provoke 
persecution. They sought improper occasions to inculcate their 
peculiar tenets — departed unnecessarily from the decencies of 
social intercourse, and rudely inveighed against established and 
cherished opinions. In this way the peace of the colonies was 
disturbed, and that unanimity of religious sentiment which had 
hitherto existed, was broken. Our forefathers sought to avert 
tnese evils by the arm of civil power ; not yet having learnt that 
persecution is a ready way to propagate the sentiments of the 
persecuted. 

In the year I646, a synod met at Cambridge, which, by ad- 
journment, protracted its session to 1648, when it dissolved. 
This synod composed and adopted the " Cambridge Platform," 
and recommended it, together with the Westminster Confession 
of Faith, to the General Court and to the churches. In this sy- 
nod were present the ministers and churches of Connecticut, 
and New-Haven, who united in the form of discipline which it 
recommended. This, in connexion with the ecclesiastical laws, 
was the religious constitution of Connecticut, until the compila- 
tion of the Saybrook Platform, a period of about sixty years. 

Section XXXVIII. a:ra!re antr ®0m=: 

lUtfCt. The colonies, during this period, had 
little other trade than with England, though the 
West-India trade had begun, and there was some 
commerce with Canada, and a few ports on the 
European continent. The colonies imported 
from England all their merchandise ; and ex- 
ported thither tobacco, peltry, and at length some 
beef, pork, grain, and fish. The importations 
from England, however, much exceeded the ex- 
ports thither 



68 PERIOD il 1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

During the first thirty years of the colony of Virginia, their ex 
ports were confined to tobacco. But tiie price of it fell at length 
from three shillings and sixpence per pound, to twenty shillings 
per hundred, in consequence of which, a trade was opened with 
the frontier Indians, and the five ISations. 1 he skins of the deer, 
elk, and bufi'alo, and the furs of the otter, hare, tox, muskrat, 
and beaver, were procured for rum, hatchets, blankets, &c. 
These skins and furs were exported to England. English grain 
and Indian corn were also exported to a considerable extent. 
Although the Virginians owned a few vessels, the greater part 
of the trade was carried on by English vessels, during this pe- 
riod. They brought to the colony English manufactures, and 
look tobacco, furs, skins, grain, tar, pitch, &c. in return. The 
Virginians also carried on some trade with Canada. 

The principal article of export from ]New-England during 
this period was peltry, which was procured of the Indians for 
goods of small value. In 1639, a fishing trade was begun at 
Cape Anne, and in l641, three hundred thousand codfish were 
sent to market. 

The first vessel directly from tlje West Indies was a Dutch 
shipofi60 tons, which arrived at Marblehead, 1635. The 
first American vessel that went to the West Indies was a pin- 
nace of thirty tons, in l636. The ship Desire of Salem made 
a voyage in l638 to New-Providence and Tortuga, and returned 
laden with cotton, tobacco, salt, and negroes. This was the 
first introduction of African slaves into New-England. The 
first importation of indigo, and sugar, from the West Indies, 
mentioned in our accounts, was made in l639. In 1 642, a 
Dutch ship exchanged a cargo of salt for plank and pipe staves, 
the exports of lumber from New-England. The next year, 
eleven ships sailed for the West Indies with lumber. 

In l678, the annual exports of the New-York colony, besides 
beef, pork, tobacco, and peltr}^, were about sixty thousand bushels 
of wheat. About ten or fifteen vessels on an average of one 
hundred tons, English and Colonial, traded to this colony in a 
year. 

Section XXXIX. 'MQVitttUiiVt* Early at- 
t(3ntion was paid to agriculture. The first busi- 
ness of the settlers, was to clear the forests and 
supply themselves with food from the soil. But 
the fertility of the earth taught them soon to look 
to agriculture as a source of wealth, as well as of 
subsistence. It therefore became the leading 
object of industry in the colonies. 



PERIOD II....1607... 1689....SETTLEMENTS. 6f 

The method adopted by the first settlers to clear the land was 
very slow and laborious, compared with the present modes* 
They used generally to cut down the trees and dig up the 
stumps, before tillage. 

Tobacco was early cultivated in Virginia, and soon began to be 
exported. The 3?ear alter the colony landed, the people gather- 
ed corn of their own planting, the seed of which they received of 
the Indians. Vineyards were attempted, and experienced vine- 
dressers were sent over for the purpose of taking care of them. 
Flax, hemp, barley, &c. were cultivated to a considerable ex- 
tent. Rye was first raised in Massachusetts, in 1633. Ploughs 
were early introduced into the country. 

The first neat cattle, ever brought into New-England, were 
introduced by Mr. Winslow, in l624. In l629, one hundred 
and fortv head of cattle, some horses, sheep, and goats, were 
brought to Massachusetts Bay. In a few years they became 
so numerous as to supply all the wants of the inhabitants. In 
1623, the cattle in Virginia hdd increased to above one thousand 
head. 

New- York raised considerable beef and pork for exportation, 
and in 1678, they exported sixty thousand bushels of wheat. 

Section xh. Mvt^ uti^ Hf antttacttttt^* 

The colonists, during this period, being chiefly 
occupied in gaining a subsistence, and in protect- 
ing themselves against their enemies, had occa- 
sion for few articles beyond the necessaries and 
comforts of life. Arts and manufactures could, 
therefore, receive but little encouragement, be- 
yond the construction of such articles, and even 
those were principally imported. 

In 1620, one hundred and fifty persons came from England 
to Virginia to carry on the manufacture of silks, iron, potash, tar, 
pitch, glass, salt, &c. but they did not succeed. In 1673, Chal 
mer says of New-England, " There be five iron works which 
cast no guns — no house in New-England has above twenty 
rooms — not twenty in Boston have ten rooms each — a dancing 
school was set up here, but put down — a fencing school is al- 
lowed. There be no musicians by trade. All cordage, sail- 
cloth, and mats, come from England — no cloth made there worth 
four shillings per yard — no alum, no copperas, no salt, made by 
their sun." 

The first buildings of the settlers were made of logs and thatch- 
ed, or were built of stone. Brick and framed bouses were soon 



70 PERIOD II....1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

built in the larger towns, and afterwards in the villages. The frames 
and brick were, however, in some instances, imported. The first 
mill in New-England was a wmd-miil, near Watertown, but it 
was taken down in 1632, and placed in the vicinity of Boston. 
Water-mills began to be erected the next year. The first at- 
tempt to build water-craft, in New-England, was at Plymouth, 
in 1626. A house carpenter sawed their largest boat into two 
parts, and lengthened it five or six feet, built a deck, and rigged 
it into a convenient vessel, which did service for seven years. 
The first vessel, built in Massachusetts, was a bark in 1631, 
called The Blessing of the Bay. In 1633, a ship of sixty tons 
was biiilt at Medford. In l636, one of one hundred and twenty 
tons was built at Marblehead. In l641, a ship of three hun- 
dred tons was launched at Salem, and one of one hundred and 
sixty tons at Boston. Frou) this time ship building rapidly ex- 
tended in the northern colonies. 

The first pn'/i^m^ in New-Enigiand, was dons in 1 639, by one 
Day. The proprietor of the press, was a clergyman, by the 
name of Glover who died on hit: passage to America. The first 
thing printed was th Ereeman's Oath, the secon<l an Almanack, 
and the third an edition ol the Psalms. No other printing 
press was established in America, during this period. John 
Elliot, the celebrated missionary, b iving translated the bible 
into the Indian language, had it printed at Cambridge in 1664. 

The mode of travelling considerable distances was on foot or 
on horseback, therr •''mg no carriages for that purpose, and the 
roads from one village to another being only narrow foot-paths, 
through forests. 

Section XLI. 330pul^ttt"n* We may esti- 
mate the population of the English American co- 
lonies at the close of this period at about 200,000. 

It is impossible to ascertain very exactly the population oi 
the Americm colonies at the close of this period. The estimates 
made by writers are vague, and often contradictory. The esti 
mate of Dr. Humphries in 1701, which seems as well entitled tc 
credit as any other, is as follows : 



A 


Souls. 




Souls. 


Massachusetts, 


\ 70,000 


New-York, 


30,000 


Connecticut, v^ 


30,000 


Jerseys, 


l.'i,000 


Rhod* -Island, 


10,000 


Pennsylvania, 


20,000 


New-Hampshire, 


10,000 


Maryland, 


25,000 






Virginia, 


40,000 



PERIOD II 1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. ^l 



New-England, 120,000 

Mid. and S. Colonies, 142,000 



Total, 262,000 



Nortn Carolina, 5,000 

Soutli Carolina, 7,000 

142,000 



Making a deduction from this account, so as to bring the esti- 
mate to the closh' of our period, we state the whole whiti- popu 
lation of the English American colonies in 1 689, at -tbout two 
hundred thousand. 

Section XLIT. ISStttatiDII,- In New-Eng- 
land schools were founded at the outset of the 
colonies for the education o^ all classes: in the 
southern colonies, provisions for the education 
of the higher classes only were attempted during 
this period. 

Scarcely had the American colonists opened the forests, and 
constructed habitations, before they directed their attention to 
the object of education. 

Previously to I6l9, the king of England authorized the col- 
lection of monies throughout the kingdom to erect a col- 
lege in Virginia, for the education of Indian children ; one 
thousand five hundred pounds were collected for this purpose, 
and Hetirico was selected as a suitable place for the seminary. 
The same year, the Virginia company granted ten thousand 
acres of land for the projected university. — This donation, while 
it embraced the original object, was intended also for the foun- 
dation of a seminary of learning for English scholars. 

In addition to a college, the colonists, in 1621, instituted a 
school at Charles' city for the benefit of all the colony, which 
they called the East Iiidla School. For the maintenance of the 
master and usher, one thousand acres of land were appropriated, 
with five servants and an overseer.- — From this school, pupils 
were to be transferred to the colleiLie at Henrico, when the latter 
should be sufficiently endowed. These establishments in Vir- 
ginia, however, failed of success, and in 1692, their funds were 
given to William and Mary's college, which we shall notice 
hereafter. 

Still more attentive to education were the northern colonies. 
In 1630, a general court of Massachusetts Bay appropriated the 
sum of four hundred pounds towards the commencement of a 
college. In 1637? the college was located at Newtown, which, 
not long after, was called Cambridge, in memory of Cambridge 
m England, where many of the colonists had received their edu- 
caiion. Mr. John Harvard, a worthy minister, dying at 



72 rERIOD H 1607....1689....SETTLEMENTS. 

Charlestown about this time, bequeathed nearly eight hundred 
pounds to the college, in consideration of which legacy, it was 
called after him. In 1642 was held the first commencement, at 
which nine were graduated. 

To this institution, the plantations of Connecticut and New- 
Haven, so long as they remained unable to support a similar 
©ne at home, contributed funds from the publick purse : and sent 
to it such of thfir youth as they wished to be educated. Pri- 
vate subscriptions were also made from the united colonies to 
aid the institution. 

Great attention was also paid by all the colonies to the sub- 
ject of common schools. As a specimen of the arrangements 
common to the INew-England colonies, we may novice those of 
Connecticut. By her first code, in 1039, only six years from 
the time the first house was erected within the colony, it was 
ordered that every town, consisting of fifty families, should main- 
tain a good school, in which reading and writing should be well 
taught, and that in every county town a good grammar school 
should be instituted. Large tracts of land were appropri- 
ated by the legislature as a permanent support of these schools, 
and the selectmen of every town were required to see thai all 
heads of families instructed their children and servants to read 
the English tongue well. 

MifUttlom. 

XLIII. At the commencement of this period, our history pre- 
sented us with a continent, over whose surface an interminable 
wilderness had for ages cast its deep and solemn shade. If we 
approach the shore, and look through the gloom that gathers 
over it, the scenes wliich strike the eye are Indians at their war 
dance, or perhaps flames curling ) jund some expiring captive, 
or wild beasts mangling their prey. 

Passing from this point of time to the close of our period, a 
space of eighty-two years, the prospect is greatly changed. We 
now see smiling fields and cheerful villages in the place of dis- 
mal forests ; instead of beasts of prey, we see grazing herds ; 
instead of the kindling faggot, we witness the worship of Jesus 
Christ ; and instead of the appalling war whoop, we listen to 
the grateful songs of David. In the beautiful words of scripture, 
the wilderness has begun to blossom as the rose, and the desert 
is becoming vocal with the praises of God. 

But how is it that a change so wonderful has been brought 
to pass ? We have indeed seen the hardy spirit of enterprise 
leuving the luxuries of Europe, and plunging into the forests of 



FERIOD H 1607 168»....SETTLEMENTS. 73 

America. But we have also seen our forefathers struggling with 
difficulties, and often trembling on the very brink of ruin. We 
have seen them amidst Indian war, desolating famine, and pes- 
tilence ; and we have wondered after the storm has passed, to 
see them rise with renovated strength, and seem to gather power 
and advantage from circumstances calculated to overwhelm 
them. 

Admitting then, the extraordinary energy, wisdom, enterprise, 
and hardihood of the first settlers of America, still we are driven 
to the admission of a benign providence working in their fa- 
vour, and mysteriously establishing their strength and security, 
by exercising them for years with danger, trial, and misfortune. 

Nor are these the only considerations which excite our admi- 
ration, in regard to the iirst settlers of North America. Al- 
though, in the eloquent words of Mr. Walsh, ^^ It was their pe- 
culiar lot, at one and the «ame time, to clear and cultivate a wil- 
derness ; to erect habitations and procure sustenance ; to straggle 
with a new and rigorous climate ; to bear up against all the bit- 
ter recollections inseparable from distant and lonely exile ; to 
defend their liberties from the jealous tyranny and bigotry ot 
the mother country ; to be perpetually assailed by a savage foe, 
the most subtle and the most formidable of any people on the 
face of the earth :" — still, they looked forward to the welfare ot 
future generations— laid broad and deep foundations for rehgious 
institutions — made the most careful provisions for learning, and 
enacted wholesome laws, the benefit of vv hich is distinctly felt 
to this day. 

In our introduction, we have remarked that history shows the 
influence of the manners of a people upon their government, 
and the reciprocal influence of government upon the manners of 
a people. The history of this period furnishes striking exam- 
ples of this. In Virginia, the free and licentious manners of so- 
ciety produce a government unsteady and capricious. This go- 
vernment re-acts upon their manners, and aids rather than cnecks 
their licentiousness. On the contrary, in New-England, the se- 
vere puritanical manners of the people produce a rigid, energet- 
ick government, and this government returns its puritanical in- 
fluence back upon the manners of tne peopie. 

7 



UNITED STATES. 



DISTINGUISHED FOR THE WARS OF KING WILLIAM, 
QUEEN ANNE, AND GEORGE II. 

Extending from the accession of William and 
Mary to the throne of England^ 1689, to the 
Declaration of the War hij England against 
France^ 1756, called " the French and Indian 
War:' 

Section I. The news of William's accession 
to the throne of England, filled the colonies with 
ecstacy. Under the sudden impulse of their 
feelings, the inhabitants of Boston seized Sir 
Edmund Andross, with about fifty of his associ- 
ates, and put them in close confinement, where 
they lay, until ordered to England, to answer for 
male-administration. Connecticut and Rhode- 
Island immediately resumed their charters, and 
were permitted by his majesty to re-establish 
their former governments. Massachusetts soon 
after obtained a new charter, in some respects 
less favourable to the colony, but in others, more 
so, than its former one. 

Andross had formerly l>een governour of New- 
York, under the duke of York, in which province 
his admimstration had been distinguished for 
measures both arbitrary and severe. Subsequent 
governours, under the duke, and after he came 
to the throne, had generally pursued a similar 
course. The discontents of the people had been 



wf the 

ITMI T EB ^ T A T M ^ 




'^niAJAlAMLMl. , ilxIE(D)]R_(&IE lie 






~l O «J «> 
I O J ft 



PERIOD I1I.:..1869... 1756. 75 

gradually increasing, and they were ready for 
revolution, when the above intelligence of the 
proceedings at Boston arrived. A revolution 
soon commenced, and, although attended by un- 
happy events, issued in the restoration of the 
rights of the people, and the formation ot a con- 
stitution, which laid the foundation of their pro- 
vincial code. 

From the reduction of New-York, in 1664, to l683, the peo- 
ple had no share in the government. In l68l, the council court 
of assizes, and corporation, had. solicited the duke of York to 
permit the people to choose their own rulers. Accordingly, the 
next year, Thomas Dongan, a papist, was appointed governi- 
our, with instructions to call an assembly, to consist of a coun- 
cil of ten, and of eighteen representatives, elected by the free- 
holders. 

On the accession of the duke of York to the throne, under the 
title of James II. he refused to con^rm to the people the privi- 
leges granted them when he was duke. No assembly was per- 
mitted to be convened; printing presses were prohibited, an J 
the more important provincird offices were conferred on papists. 

Such was the state of things, when intelligence of the seizure 
of Andross arrived. This gave a spring to the general dissatis- 
faction, which burst forth into open resistance to the existing ad- 
ministration. 

One Jacob Leisler, with several others, immediately took pos- 
session of the fort. Governour Dongan had just embarked for 
England, leaving the administration of the government, during 
his absence, to Chr^rles Nicholson, at that time his deputy. 
Nicholson and his officers made what opposition to Leisler they 
were able, but he having been joined by six militia captains, 
and four hundred and seventy men, Nicholson absconded. Upon 
this, Leisler assumed the supreme command. 

This assumption of Leisler was far from being pleasant to 
the council and magistrates, at the head of whom were Col. Bay- 
ard and the mayor. Finding it impossible, however, to suc- 
ceed against Leisler in New- York, they retired to Albany, and 
there employed their influence to foment opposition. Both Leis- 
ler, in New-York, and the people at Albany, held their respect- 
ive garrisons in the name of WiUiam and Mary, but neither 
Would submit to the authority of the other. 

In this state of things, a letter from the lords Carmatheh and 
Halifax, arrived, directed, " To Francis Nicholson, Esq. oi in 



fQ THREE WARS OF WM. III....ANNE....GE0. II. 

his absence, to such as, for the time being, take care for preserv- 
ing the peace and administering the laws,'' &;c. Accompany- 
ing tnis letter, was another of a subsequent date, vesting Nichol- 
son with the chief command. 

As Nicholson had absconded, Leisler construed the letter as 
directed to himself, and from that time assumed the title and au- 
thority of lieutenant governour. The southern part of New- 
York generally submitted to him ; but Albany refusing subjec- 
tion, Milbo^a, his son-in-law, was sent to reduce them. In his 
first attempt he failed ; but during the ensuing spring, I69O, he 
took possession of the fort, and the inhabitants submitted. 

On the 19th of March, I691, Col. Slaughter arrived at New- 
York, in the capacity of the king's governour. Nicholson and 
Bayard, who had been imprisoned by Leislef, were released. 
The latter was obliged to abandon the fort, and with Milborn, 
his son-in-law, was apprehended, tried for high treason, and 
condemned. Their immediate execution was urged by the peo- 
ple ; but the governour, fearful of consequences, chose to defer 
it. I'o effect their purpose, an invitation was given him by the 
citizens to a sumptuous feast, and while his reason was drowned 
in intoxicatisn, a warrant for their execution was presented to 
him and signed. Before he recovered his senses, the prisoners 
were no m^re. 

Measures so violent greatly agitated the existing parties, but 
in the end, the revolution which had taken place, restored the 
rights of Englishmen to the colony. Governour Slaughter con- 
voked an assembly, who formed a constitution. This consti- 
tution, among other provisions, secured trials by jury, freedom 
from taxation, except by the consent of the assembly, and tole- 
ration to all denominations of Christians, excepting Roman Ca- 
tholicks. 

Section II. While these troubles were distress- 
ing the colonies of the north, that of Carolina, 
m the south, was far from being in a state of 
tranquillity. Dissensions early arose in that co- 
lony respecting the proprietary government, un- 
der which they still continued. On the one hand, 
a part of the people insisted upon implicit obe- 
dience to all the laws and regulations of the pro- 
prietors in England : while another part contend- 
ed, on the other hand, that no such obedience 
was due Both parties being ardent and deter- 



PERIOD III....1689....1756. 77 

mined, the conflict between them was violent, 
and greatly prolonged, to the serious injury of 
the colony. 

In addition to these dissensions, others arose 
between the English settlers, and a colon} of 
French Protestants who had planted themselves 
in the county of Craven ; to whom the English 
denied nearly every civil privilege, and especially 
the right of representation in the assembly. 

In view of these accumulating troubles, John 
Archdale, one of the proprietors, was sent to 
America in 1695, with full powers to redress 
grievances, and, if possible, to adjust existing 
diflerences. 

Archdale was rjeceived with cordiality, and by 
his singular wisdom and address, was so happy 
as to accomplish the purposes of his mission, ex- 
cept that he was unable fully to secure the rights 
and liberties of the French refugees. Not long 
after, however, the prejudices of the English 
against them abated, and they became incorpo- 
rated with the freemen of the colony. 

Section 111. About this period, 1692, commenc- 
ed in Danvers, then a part of Salem, Massachu- 
setts, a singular infatuation on the supposed pre- 
valence of witchcraft. In a short time, this infa- 
tuation pervaded several parts of New-England, 
producing, in its progress, the greatest distress 
in private families and disorder and tumult 
throughout the country. 

The first suspicion of witchcraft in New-England, and in the 
United States, began at Springfield, Massachusetts, as early as 
1645. Several persons, about that time, were accused, tried, 
and executed in Massachusetts ; one at Charlestown. one at 
Dorchester, one at Cambridge, and one at Boston. For almost 
thirty years afterwards the subject rested. But in 1 687 or 1688, 
it was revived in Boston ; four of the children of John Goodwin 
uniting in accusing a poor Ir'sh woman with bewitching them. 

7* 



78 PERIOD m....l689....1766. 

Unhappily the accusation was regarded with attention, and tlie 
woman was tried and executed. 

Near the close of February, 1692, the subject was again re- 
vived, in consequence of several children in Danvers, Salem, be- 
ginning to act in a peculiar and unaccountable manner. Their 
strange conduct* continufeiij: for several days, their friends be- 
took themselves to fasting ailid prayer. During religious exer- 
cises it was found that the^chiklren were generally decent and 
still ; but after service was'^'^iicJed, they renewed their former 
inexplicable conduct. This was deemed sufficient evidence that 
they were labouring under the influence of witchcraft. 

At the expiration of some days, the children began to accuse 
several persons in the neighbourhood of bewitching them. Un- 
fortunately they were credited, and the suspected authors of the 
spell, were seized and imprisoned. 

From this date, the awful mania rapidly spread into the neigh- 
bouring country, and soon appeared in various parts of Essex- 
Middlesex, and Suffolk. Persons at Andover, Ipswich, Glou- 
cester, Boston, and several other places, were accused by their 
neighbours and others. 

For some time, the victims were selected only from the lower 
classes. But at length the accusations fell upon persons of the 
most respectable rank. In August, Mr. George Boroughs, some 
time minister in Salem, was accused, brought to trial, and con- 
demned. Accusations were also brought against Mr. English, 
a respectable merchant in Salem, and his wife ; against Messrs. 
Dudley and John Bradstreet, sons of the then late governour 
Bradstreet ; against the wife of Mr. Hale, and the lady of Sir 
William Phipps. 

The evil had now become awfully alarming. One man, named 
Giles Corey, had been pressed to death for refusing to put him- 



* The manner in which those who were supposed to be afflicted with 
tiiis malady were exercised, is thus described hy Cotton Mather in his 
Maf^nalia. ^ *' Sometimes they were deaf, sometimes dumb, sometimes 
blind, and often all this at once. Their tongues would be drawn down 
Iheir throats, and then pulled out upon their chins to a prodigious length. 
Their mouths were forced open to such a wideness that their jaws went 
out of joint ; and anon would clap tog;ether again with a force like that of 
^ spring lock ; and the hke would happen to their shoulder-blades, and 
Iheir elbows, and their hand-wrists, and several of their joints. Some- 
times they would be benumbed, and be drawn violently together, and pre- 
sently stretched out and drawn back. They complained that they were 
out with knives and struck with blows, and the prints of the wounds were 
seen upon them." We cannot believe that aJl this aettially took place ; 
probably the pei-sons were singularly affected, and the excited fencies <if 
those who-k)Gk<id on, added the rest of the pictwre. 



I^ERIOD 1II....1689....1756. 7-9 

self on trial by jury ; and nineteen persons had been executed, 
more than one third of whom were members of the church. 
One hundred and fifty were in prison, and two hundred were 
accused. 

At length the inquiry Vas anxiously suggested, where will 
this accumulating mischief and misery end ? A conviction be- 
gan to spread that the proceedings had been rash and indefen- 
sible. A special court was held on the subject, and fifty who 
were brought to trial, were acquitted, excepting three, who were 
afterwards reprieved by the governour. These events were fol- 
lowed by a general release of tliose who had been imprisoned. 
" Thus the cloud," says the late President Dwight, " which had 
so long hung over the colony, slowly and sullenly retired ; and 
like the darkness of Egypt, was, to the great joy of the distress- 
ed inhabitants, succeeded by serenity and sunshine."* 

We, who live to look back upon this scene, are wont to con- 
template, with wonder, the seeming madness and infatuation, not 
of the weak, illiterate, and unprincipled ; but of men of sense, 
education, and fervent piety. Let us consider, however, that 
at this period, the actual existence of witchcraft was taken for 
granted, and that doubts respecting it were deemed little less 
than heresy. The learned Baxter, who lived at this time in 
England, where the same notions on this subject prevailed, pro- 
nounced the disbeliever in witchcraft, an " obdurate Sadducee ;" 
and Sir Matthew Hale, one of the brightest ornaments of the 
English bench, repeatedly tried and condemned those as crimi- 
nals, who were accused of witchcraft. 

The human mind is prone to superstition, and more or less of 
it prevails in every country, even in those which are civilized 
and refined, and upon which divine revelation sheds its light. 
In the case of the people of Essex, where this delusion chiefly 
prevailed, there were circumstances existing which did not exist 
in England. They had lived for some years among the savages, 
had heard their narratives of Hobbamocko, or the devil, of his 
frequent appearance to them, of their conversations with him, 
and of his sometimes carrying them off. Every village was the 
theatre of some such scenes, and stories of mystery and won- 
der, heightened by imagination, went the rounds during their 
winter evenings, confirmed their opinions, roused their admira- 
tion, and furnished materials for approaching terrours. 

The circumstances attending the first strange appearances 
were also unfortunate, and powerfully tended to give them cur- 
rency. The family of a minister, who was himself credulous, 



*Dwight»s Travels. 



80 THREE WARS OF WM. III....ANNE....GEO. H. 

and with whom an Indian and his wife lived, were first affected* 
The opinions of the Indians were deemed important, as they 
were supposed to be adepts in the science of witchcraft. Added 
to this, the physician of the village concurred in the opinion, and 
the fact was therefore no longer to be doubted. The attention 
of the publick mind was immediately roused, and as others seem- 
ed to be exercised in a similar nianner, the way was })repared 
for the delusion to spread. Children of not more than twelve 
years of age were permitted to give their testimonj' ; Indians 
were called to tell their stories of wonder, and women their noc- 
turnal frights. For a time the counsels of age were unlieard ; 
wisdom was confounded, and religion silenced. 

If, however, the uniform protestations of those who were exe- 
cuted, or the confessions of numbers who had been accusers, or 
the conviction of errour on the ])art of those who were leaders 
in these awful scenes, be credited, we shall be satisfied that the 
whole originated in folly and delusion. All who were executed, 
excepting the first, protested their innocence with their dying 
breath, when a confession would have saved their lives. Years 
afterwards, those who had been accusers, when admitted to the 
church, acknowledged their delusion, and asked " pardon for 
having broudit the guilt of innocent blood on the land." 

Even juries, who had been concerned in the tr^al and condem- 
nation of some of these unfortunate sufferers, recanted their er- 
rours. " We do signify," to use the language of a jurv. subse- 
quently conscious of their wrong, '' our deep sense of^^'aifvd sor- 
row for, our errours in acting on such evidence ; we pray thai 
we may be considered candidly and aright, by the living suffer- 
ers, as being then, under the power of a general and strong de- 
lusion." In one instance at least, a church, that of Danvers, 
which had excommunicated a person on suspicion of witchcraft, 
and who was hung, four years afterwards, recalled the sentence, 
" that it might not stand against her to all generations.". 

In conclusion it may be remarked, that no people On earth 
are now more enlightened on this subject than are the people of 
America. Nothing of a similar kind has since existed, and pro- 
bal)]}^ never will exist. Stories of wonder, founded upon an- 
cient tradition, or upon a midnight adventure, sometimes awe 
the village circle on a winter^s night, but the succeeding day 
chases away every ghost, and lulls every fear. It becomes the 
present generation to advert with gratitude to their freedom from, 
those delusions which distressed and agitated their ancestors, ra- 
ther than to bestow invf^ctives upon them, since they could plead 
in palliation of their errour—the spirit of the age in which they 
lived. 



PERIOD II1....1680....1726. 81 

Section IV. Scarcely were the colonies reliev- 
ed from the oppression of king James, before 
they were visited with troubles of a nature still 
more distressing. The revolution, which follow- 
ed the accession of William and Mary, had in- 
aeed restored their liberties, but it involved them 
m a war both with the French and Indians, which 
eontinued from 1690, to the peace of Ryswick, 
in 1697, commonly called ''King William^ s 
War:' 

King James, on leaving England, fled to France. Louis XIV. 
king of France, attempting to support him, kindled the flame of war 
between his own country and England. The subjects of Louis, 
in Canada, of course directed their arms against the colonies of 
New-England and New- York, and instigated the Indians to join 
them in their hostilities. 

Count Frontenac, a brave and enterprising of- 
ficer, was now the governour of Canada. In- 
flamed with the resentment which had kindled 
in the bosom of his master, Louis XIV. of France, 
against William, for his treatment of James, he 
fitted out three expeditions, in the dead of winter, 
against the American colonies — one against New- 
York, a second against New-Hampshire, and a 
third against the province of Maine. Each of 
these parties, in the execution of their orders, 
marked their progress with plunder, fire, and 
death. • ' . 

The party destined against New-York, consisting of about 
three hundred men, in February fell upon Schenectady, a vil- 
lage on the Mohawk. The season was cold, and the snow s<) 
deep, that it was deemed impossible for an enemy to approach. 
The attack was made in the dead of the night, while the inhabit- 
ants were in a profound sleep. Not a sentinel was awake to 
announce the approaching danger. Care had been taken, by a 
division of the enemy, to attack almost every house in the same 
moment. When the preparations were ready, c-n a preconcert- 
ed signal, the apalling war-whoop was begun ; houses were bro- 
Ken open and set on fire — men and women were dragged from 



82 THREE WARS OF WM. Ill ...ANNE GEO. 11. 

their beds, and with their sleeping infants were inhumanly mur- 
dered. Sixty persons perished in the massacre, thirty were madf; 
prisoners, while the rest of the inhabitants, mostly naked, fled 
through a deep snow, either suffering extremely, or perilling ia 
the cold. 

The second party, directing their course to New-Hamp- 
shirt, burned Salmon Falls, killing thirty of the bravest men, 
and carrying fifty-four of the inhabitants into a miserable cap- 
tivity. 

The third party, proceeding from Quebec, destroyed the set- 
tlement of Casco, in Maine, and killed and captured one hun- 
dred people. 

Section V. Roused by these proceedings of 
the French, the colony of Massachusetts resolv- 
ed to attack the enemy in turn. Accordingly an 
expedition consisting of seven vessels, and eight 
hundred men, under command of Sir William 
Phipps, sailed for the reduction of Port Royal, 
in Nova ScOtia, which was easily and speedily 
effected. 

A second expedition, under the same comman- 
der, was soon after resolved upon by the colonies 
of New-York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, 
united, for the reduction of Montreal and Que- 
bec. A combination of unfortunate circumstan- 
ces, however, defeated the design, and the ex- 
pedition after encountering numerous hardships 
and disasters, returned. 

The plan was for the troops of New-York and Connecticut, 
consisting of about two thousand, to penetrate into Canada, by 
Lake Champlain, and to attack Montreal, at the same time that 
the naval armament, consisting of between thirty and forty ves- 
sels, with a similar number of men, should invest Quebec. The 
troops destined for Montreal not being supplied, either with 
boats or provisions, sufficient for crossing the lake, were obliged 
to return. The naval expe-dition did not reach Quebec, until 
October. After spending several days in consultation, the land- 
ing of the troops was effected, and they began their march for 
the town. At the same time the ships were drawn up ; but the 
attack, both by land and water, was alike unsuccessful. The 
troops were soon after re-embarked, and the weather, prev- 



PERIOD lli....lGS9... 1756. 83 

iiig tempestuous, scattered the fleet, and terminated the expedi- 
tion. 

The success of the expedition had been so confidently calcu- 
lated upon, that provision had not been made for the payment 
of the troops ; there was danger, therefore, of a mutiny. In 
this extxemity, Massachusetts issued bills of credit, as a substi- 
tute for money ; the first emission of the kind in the American 
colonies. 

Sir William Phipps, to whom the above expeditions were en- 
trusted, was a native of New-England. The extraordinary in- 
cidents of his life will serve to exhibit the powerful spirit of per- 
sonal enterprise which the peculiar circumstances of the colo- 
nies called forth. 

The place of his birth, which happened in l650, was a small 
plantation, on the river Kennebeck, at that time nearly the limit 
of the English settlements on the east. His father was a gun- 
smith, who had a family of twenty-six children by one wife, 
twenty-one of whom were sons;, of which William was nearly 
the youngest. His father dying while he was quite a lad, lie 
lived with his mother until his eighteenth year, during which 
time he was chiefly concerned in the care of sheep. Contrary 
to the wishes of his friends, he now indented himself as an ap- 
prentice to a ship-carpenter, ior four years, in which time he be- 
came master of his art. Upon the expiration of his service, he 
went to Boston, where he followed his trade about a year, during 
which he learned to read and write, and in which time he was 
respectably married. 

Failing of that success in his trade, which his enterprising ge- 
nius coveted, he turned his attention to the sea, and during his first 
voyage, hearing of a Spanish wreck near the Bahamas, he di- 
rected his course thither, but obtained from it only sufficient to 
furnish himself for a voyage to England. On his arrival in that 
country, he heard of another Spanish wreck, in which was lost 
an immense treasure ; but the precise spot of which was as yet un- 
discovered. Being sanguine in the belief that he should be more 
successful than those who had preceded him, in their attempts 
to discover it, he solicited the patronage of several persons in 
office, through whose influence he was appointed to the Algier 
Rose, an English frigate of eighteen guns and ninety-five men, 
in which, some time after, he sailed in quest of the wreck. 

It often happens that Divine Providence, previously to crown- 
ingf a man's exertions with success, involves him for a season in 
difficulties, and tries him with disap]>ointments. This was strik- 
ino^ly verified in the case of Capt. Phipps. Not meeting with 
the success which he had promised his cr^w, they at length be- 
came mutinous, and on a sudden rushed upon him, while on the 



84 THREE WARS OF WM. III....ANNE....GEO. II. 

quarter deck, with drawn swords, and demanded of him, as the 
only condition of life, that he should join them in escaping to the 
South Seas, to engage in piracy. A Ithough entirely unarmed, he 
stood firm and collected until he had fixed his plan, and then with 
a courage bordering on rashness rushed in upon their pointed 
swords, deahng his blows so judiciously that he felled numbers 
to the deck, and so awed the rest, that they consented to yield. 
At another time finding it necessary to careen his vessel, he put 
into a desolate Spanish island, near to a rock from which a 
temporary bridge was extended to the ship. IVlutiny was se- 
cretly working among his crew. While preparations were mak- 
ing by the carpenter for repairing the vessel, ninety of his men 
left her, and retired into the adjoining wood, under pretence of 
diversion, but in reality for mutinous purposes. Here a plan 
was formed, which was to seize Capt. Fhipps, and the nine or 
ten men who were known to be friendly to him, and to abandon 
them to their fate on the island. 

Apprehensive that the carpenter might be necessary on their 
voyage, they sent to him, then at w^ork on the vessel, and re- 
quested that he would come to them. On his arrival he was 
apprized of their design, and threatened with death should he 
not second their views. The carpenter, being an honest man, 
requested an half hour to think upon the proposal, and return- 
ing to the ship, accompanied by a spi/ from the mutineers, re- 
sumed his work. On a sudden, feigning himself severely dis- 
tressed with pain, he excused himself, while he should hasten 
to the captain, who was below, for a dram. In few words, 
while the dram was getting, he discovered the "plot to Capt. 
Phipps, and sought his advice. The captain bid him go back 
to the rogues, sign their articles, and leave the rest to him. No 
sooner had the carpenter gone, than Capt. Phipps summoned 
the men on board, of whom the gunner was one, and having 
briefly stated the plan in agitation, demanded of them, whether 
they would share Jiis fortune ; to which they unanimously agreed. 
All their provisions w ere on shore in a tent, round which seve- 
ral guns had been planted, to defend them from the Spaniards, 
should any chance to pass that way. These guns Capt. Phipps 
ordered his iiien to charge, and silently to turn in the direction 
of the mutineers, w hile he should pull up the bridge, and with 
the assistance of two or three others bring the guns on board to 
bear on every side of the tent. 

Scarcely were these preparations ended, when the mutineers, 
flushed with their anticipated success, made their appearance. 
On their nearer approach, Capt. Phipps bade them advance at 
their peril ; at the same time directing his men to fire, should a 
single one come forward. Awed by his decision, and the death- 



I 



PERIOD III....1689....1756. 85 

like preparations visible, they paused ; upon which Capt. Phipps 
informed them that their plot was discovered, and that he was 
determined to leave them to that late, which they had designed 
for him, and tlwse of the crew who were too virtuous to second 
their villanous purposes. At the same time he directed the 
bridge to be let down, and the provisions to be brought on board 
— while some of the men should stand with matches at the guns, 
with orders to fire sliould a single nnitineer advance. This un- 
expected reverse, and especially the prospect of a certain, but a 
lingering death on a desolate shore, had the effect to subdue 
the mutineers, who now on their knees besought his pardon, 
and promised obedience to his orders. Unwilling, however, to 
trust them, Capt. Phipps tied their arms one alter another ; and 
when all were on board, immediately weighed anchor, and sailed 
for Jamaica, where he dismissed them. From this place, hav- 
ing shipped another crew, he sailed for Hispaniola, intending to 
proceed in search of the Spanish wreck ; but his crew proving 
unfit, he returned to England. 

Through the assistance of the duke of Albemarle, and other per- 
sons of quality, he was furnished with another hhip and a tender, 
with which he sailed for Port de la Plata, where after completing 
his preparations, he proceeded in search of the wreck. Having 
for a long time fruitlessly sought the object of his voyage, in the 
neighbourhood of a reef of rocks called the Boilers^ further 
search was about being abandoned, when, as one of the boats 
was returning to the ship across the reef, one of the men looking 
over the side, spied as he thought a sea feather, growing out of a 
rock : whereupon an Indian diver v/as directed to descend and 
fetch it up. But what were their surprise and joy, on his return, 
to learn that he had discovered several guns, lying on the bottom 
of the deep. A second descent of the Indian increased their joy 
still more, for on his rising, he v/as bearing in his hand a sow, as 
they called it, or a mass of silver, of the value of several hun- 
dred pounds sterling. Tidings of the discovery were immedi- 
ately conveyed to Capt. Phipps, who, with his men, repaired 
to the spot, and upon leaving the place, carried with him thirty- 
two tons of silver bullion, besides a large quantity of gold, pearls, 
and jewels, over which the billows h:;id been rolling for more 
than half a century. On his arrival in London, the property 
thus rescued was valued a* nearly three hundred thousand pounds 
sterling ; yet of this sum such was his exemplary honesty and 
liberality, that partly by fulfilling his assurances to his seamen, 
and partly by conscientiously paying over to his employers all 
their dues, he had left to himself less than sixteen thousand 
pounds. As a reward to his fidelity, however, he received a 
large present from the duke of Albemarle, and upon a repre- 

8 



85 THREE WARS OF WM. 1JI....ANNE....GE0. ll. 

sentation of his enterprise to the king, his majesty conferred up- 
on him the honour of knighthood. Liberal offers were made to 
him Wy the commissioriers of the ravy to continue in England, 
but lie had too great an attachment for his native country to 
think of a pei manent residence in any other land than that of 
New-f .nglan«l. 

James II. was at this time on the throne of England, by whom 
the cf>Jonies m America had been deprived of their charters, and 
under whose governours they were severely suffering from ar- 
bitrary laws, and excessive exactions. — Pleased with Phipps, 
the king gave him an opportunity to ask of his majesty what he 
pleased ; upon which, forgetting personal aggrandizement, he 
besought lor JNew-England, that her lost privileges might be re- 
stored to her. This was too great a boon to be granted, and the 
king replied, " arti/ tidng but tfiat.'^ His next request was, 
that he might be appointed high sheriff of the country, hoping 
that by means of his deputies in that office, he might supply the 
country with conscientious juries " which was the only method," 
says Mather, " thai the New-Englanders had left them to secure 
any thing that was dear unto them." 

Having at some expense obtained his request, after an absence 
of five years, he arrived in his native country ; but the king's 
government found means not only to set aside his commission 
as high sheriff, but also to raise against him such a tide of oppo- 
sition, that he had nearly been assassinated before his own door. 
Finding affairs in so unsettled a state, and his own situation un- 
conUbrtable, he, not long after, took another voyage to England. 
Soon after his arrival in that country, James abdicated the 
throne, and the Prince of Orange ascended it. This event was 
the harbinger of better things to New-England. Having ten- 
dered his services to William, and rejected with disdain the go- 
vernment of New-England, proffered to him about this time by 
the abdicated king, he hastened his return to America, hoping 
now to be of some service to his country. In the unsettled state 
of the colonies, his wisdom and influence were of great import- 
ance, and contributed not a little to forward the revolution, 
which issued in freeing the colonies from the tyranny of James 
and his ministers. 

The latter part of the life of Sir William Phipps is rendered 
doubly interesting, by his openly espousing the cause of religion. 
At the age of forty he was publickly baptized in one of the 
churches of Boston, and received into her communion. In an 
address on that occasion, in conclusion he observed, " I have 
had pi offers of baptism elsewhere made to me, but I resolved 
rather to defer it until I could enjoy it in the communion of ^.hese 
churclies. I have had awful impressions from the words of the 



PERIOD 1IL...1680....1726. 87 

Lord Jesus J * Whosoever shall be ashamed of me, and of my 
word, of him shall the Son of Man be ashamed.' W hen God 
had blessed me with something of tht world, 1 had no trouble 
so great as this, lest it should not be in mercy ; and 1 trembled 
at nothing more than being put oft with a portion here. Thai 
I may be sure of belter things, I now ofter m3'self unto the com- 
munion of the faithful." 

King William's war breaking out at this time, he sailed upon 
the expedition against Fort Koyal and Quebec, related above. 
In the following year he received a commission as captain gene- 
ral and governour in chief over the province of Massachusetts 
Bay. No aj)pointnient could have been more acceptable to the 
people. He came to the governi);»nt however in unsettled times, 
and though his administration was marked by disinteresteuness 
and liberality, it vas his fortune, as it is the fortune of all in 
high stations, to have enemies. Too restless to remain at ease, 
they at length preferred charges against him to the king, who, 
though satisfied of his fidelity, considering it expedient to in- 
quire into the case, directed Sir William to appear in England. 
In obedience to the royal command, he took leave ot Boston, in 
Nov. 1694, attended with every demonstreition of respect from 
the people, and with addresses to their Majesties, that he might 
be continued in his present respectable and useful station. 

On his arrival in England, the cloud, which had hung over 
him, was fast dispelling, and the prospect flattering of his speedy 
return to his government ujiinjured by the accusation of preJH- 
dice and calumnj^ But Providence had now accomplished its 
designs in respect to him. He was suddenly attacked by a ma- 
lignant disease, which terminated his life^ in February, to the 
great grief of all who were acquainted with the generosity and 
patriotism, integrity, and piety, that distinguished him. 

The life of such a man is always replete with instruction. It 
reveals to those in the humbler walks of life, the means by which 
they may not only arrive at distinction, but to that which is ot 
far higher importance — an extended sphere of usefulness in 
church and state. Enterprise, exertion, integrity, will accom- 
plish every thing.* 

Sectiofi VI. The failure of the expedition to 
Quebec was humbling to New-England, and pro- 
ductive of other unliapjjy consequences. The 
Indian tribes, Mohawks, Oneidas, Senecas, On- 



* Mather's Magnalia. 



88 THREE WARS OF WM. 1II....ANNE GEO. U. 

ondagos, and Dela wares, called the Five Nations^ 
j^ettled along the banks of the Susquehannah, and 
in the adjacent country, who were in alliance 
with Great Britain, and had long been a safe- 
guard to the colonies against the French, be- 
came dissatisfied. They blamed the English 
for their inactivity, and manifested a disposition 
to make peace with the French. 

To restore the confidence of the Indian allies, Major P. Schuy- 
ler, the next year, 1691, with three thousand men, nearly half 
Mohawks and Schakook Indians, made an attack on the French 
settlements, north of Lake Champlain. De Callieres, governr- 
our of Montreal, was waiting to oppose him. After a severe 
encounter, Schuyler made good his retreat, having killed thirteen 
officers and three hundred men. 

New-York found great security against the encroachments of 
the French, in the Five Nations, who now carried on a vigorous 
war, along the river St. Lawrence, from Montreal to Quebec. 

But the eastern portion of the country, particularly New- 
Hampshire, suffered exceedingly ; the storm falling with the 
greatest severity upon them. Both Connecticut and Massachu- 
setts raised troops for their defence ; but such was the danger 
and distress of the colony of New-Hampshire, that the inhabit- 
ants were upon the point of abandoning the Province. 

The winter of 1696 was unusually severe. Never had the 
country sustained such losses in commerce, nor had provisions, 
rn any period of the war, been more scarce or borne a higher 
price. 

Section VII. In the midst of these distresses, 
the country was threatened with a blow, which 
it seemed impossible that it should sustain. The 
marquis Nesmond, an officer of high reputation, 
was despatched from France, with ten ships of 
the line, a galliot, and two frigates. Count Fron- 
tenac, from Canada, was expected to join him 
at Penobscot, with one thousand five hundred 
men. With this force, they were to make a de- 
scent on Boston ; to range the coast of New- 
foundland, and burn the shipping which should 
fdll in their way. To finish their work of de- 



PERIOD in....l689... 1766. 89 

struction, they were to take New- York, whence 
the troops, under Frontenae, were to return to 
Canada, through the country, wasting ami de- 
stroying the regions through which they should 
pass. But De Nesmond sailed too late for the 
accomplishment of his purpose. On his arrival 
on the coast, not being able to join Frontenae in 
season, the expedition failed, and the colonies 
were saved. At length, Dec. 10, 1697, a treaty 
was concluded between France and England, at 
Ryswick, in Germany, by which it was agreed, 
in general terms, that a mutual restitution should 
be made of all the countries, forts, and colonies, 
taken by each party during the war. 

King William's war, whicii was thus terminated, had heen 
marked by atrocities on the part of the French and Indians, un- 
til then, unknown in the history of the colonies. Women, soon 
expecting to become mothers, were generally ripped up, and 
their unborn offspring inhumanly dashed against a stone or tree. 
Infants, when they became troublesome, were despatched in the 
same manner. Or, to add to the anguish of a mother, hei babe 
was sometimes lacerated with a scourge, or nearly strangled 
under water, and then presented to her to quiet. If unable 
soon to suiceed in this, it was too t irectually quieted by the 
hatchet, or left behind to become the prey of prowling beasts. 
Some of the captives were roasted alive; othe s received deep 
wounds in the fleshy parts of their bodies, into which sticks on 
fire were thrust, until tormented out of life, they expired. In 
one instance, an infant was tied to the corpse of its mother, and 
left to perish, vainly endeavouring to draw nourishment from 
her bosom. 

Great were the sufferings of those whose condition was tlie 
best. They were subjected to the hardships of travelling with- 
out shoes, without clothes, and often without food, amidst frost, 
and rain, and snow, by night and by day, through pathless de- 
serts, and throuih gloomy swamj^s. No kindness was shown 
them, and no pity felt for them. If they fainted under their burden, 
or only remitted for a moment theirtoil,they received from their in» 
human conductors the severest chastisement, or expired by means 
of a blow from the tomahawk. Such were s me of the caland» 
ties which our ancestors endured in the defence of the countiy, 
which they have transmitted to us wnh so much honour. 

8* 



90 THREE WARS OF WM. III....ANNE....GEO. H. 

The details of individual sufferings, which occurred during 
this war, were they faithfully recorded, would excite \\\e sym- 
pathies of the most unfeeling bosom. One instance only can 
we relate. 

In an witack by a body of Indians on Haverhill, New-Hamp- 
shire, in the winter of l697y the concluding year of the war, a 
party of the assailants, burning with savage animosity, approach- 
ed the house of a Mr. Dustan. Upon the first alarm, he fl(w 
from a neighbouring field to his family, with the hope of hurry- 
ing them to a place of safety. Seven of his children he directed 
to flee, while he himself went to assist his wife, who was confin- 
ed to the bed with an infant, a week old. But before she could 
leave her bed, the savages arrived. 

In despair of rendering: her assistance, Mr. Dustan flew to the 
door, mounted his horse, and determined in his own mind, to 
snatch up and save the child which he loved the best. He fol- 
lowed in pursuit of his little flock, but, upon coming up to 
them, he found it impossible to make a selection. The eye of 
the parent could see no one of the number that he could abandon 
to the knife of the savas:e. He determined, therefore, to meet 
his fate with them ; to defend and save them from their pursu- 
ers, or die by their side. 

A body of Indains soon came up with him, and, from short 
distances, fired upon him and his little company. For mon 
than a mile he continued to retreat, placing himself between his 
cliildren and the fire of the savages ; and returning their shots 
with ?reat spirit and success. At length he saw them all safely 
lod<ied frojn their bloody pursuers, in a distant house. 

It is not easy to find a nobler instance of fortitude and courage, 
inspired by affection, than is exhibited in this instance. Let us 
ever cultivate the influence of those ties of kindred, which are 
capable of giving so generous and elevated a direction to our ac- 
tions. 

As Mr. Dustan quitted his hojise, a party of Indians entered 
it. Mrs. Dustan was in bed ; but they ordered her to rise, and, 
before she could completely dress herself, obliged her and the 
nurse, who liad vainly endeavoured to escape with the infant, to 
quit the house, which th!^' plundered and set on fire. 

In thf s-^ distressin'i circumstances Mrs. Dustan began her 
march, with oth^r captive^;, into the wilderness. The air was 
keen, and their path led alternately through snow and deep mud ; 
and her savage conductors delighted rather in the infliction of 
tor'Tj^nt, than the alleviation of distress. 

The companv had proceeded but a short distance, when an 
Jn^fian, thinkinj? the infant an incumbrance, look it from the 
nurse's arms, and violently terminated its life. Such of thd 



PERIOD III....1689....1756. 91 

Other captives as began to be weary, and incapable of proceed- 
ing, the Indians killed with their tomahawks. Feeble as Mrs. 
Dustan was, both she and her nurse sustained with wonderful 
energy, the fatigue and misery attending a journey of one hun- 
dred and fifty miles. 

On their arrival at the place of their destination, they found 
the wigwam of the savage, who claimed them as his personal 
j^roperty, to be inhabited by twelve Indians. In the ensuing 
A[/ril, this family set out with their captives, for an Indian set- 
tlement still more remote. The captives were informed that, 
on their arrival at the settlement, they must submit to be strip- 
ped, scourged, and run the gauntlet, between two files of Indians. 
This information carried distress to the minds of the captive wo- 
men, and led them promptly to devise some means of escape. 

Early in the morning of the 31st, Mrs. Dustan awaking her 
nurse and another fellow-prisoner, they despatched ten of the 
twelve Indians while asleep. The other two escaped. The 
women then pursued their difficult and toilsome journey through 
the wilderness, and at length arrived in safety at Haverhill. 
Subsequently, they visited Boston, and received, at the hand 
#f the General Court, a handsome consideration for their extra- 
ordinary sufferings and heroick conduct. 

" Whether all their sufferings," says Dr. Dwight, to whom we 
are indebted for this interesting story, " and all the danger of 
suffering anew, justified this slaughter, may probably be ques- 
tioned by the exact moralist. Precedents innumerable, and of 
high authority, may indeed be urged in behalf of these captives ; 
but the moralist will equally question the rectitude of these. 
Few persons, however, agoni/ing as Mrs. Dustan did, under the 
evils which she had already suffered, and in the full apprehen- 
sion of those which she was destined to suffer, would have been 
able to act the part of nice casuists ; and fewer still, perhaps, 
would have exercised her intrepidity. That she herself approv- 
ed ol' the conduct, which was applauded by the masfistrates and 
divines of the day, in the cool hours of deliberation, cannot be 
doubted. The truth is, the season of Indian invasion, burning, 
butcheringr. captivity, threatening, and torture, is an unfortunate 
time for nice investigation, and critical moralizing. A wife, 
who had just seen her house burnt, her infant dashed against a 
tree, and her companions coldly murdered one by one ; who 
supposed her husband and her remaininer children to have shar- 
ed the same fate ; who was threatened with torture and inde- 
cency more painful than torture ; and who did not entertain a 
doubt that the threatening would be fulfilled 5 would probably 
feel no necessity, when she found it in her power to despatch the 



92 THREE WARS OF WM ni....ANNE....GEO. 11. 

authors of her sufferings, of asking questions concerning an^ 
thing, but the success of the enterprise. 

" But whatever may be thought of the rectitude of her con, 
duct, that of her husband is in every view honourable. A finei 
succession of scenes for the pencil was hardly ever presented to 
the eye, than is furnished by the efforts of this gallant man, with 
their interesting appendages. The artist must be destitute in 
deed of talents, who could not engross every heart, as m ell as 
every eye, by exhibitions of this husband and father, fl}ing to 
rescue his wife, her infant, and her nurse, from the approaching 
horde of savages ; attempting on his horse to select from his 
flying family the child which he was the least able to spare, and 
unable to make the selection ; facing in their rear the horde of 
hell-hounds ; alternately and sternly retreating behind his ines- 
timable charge, and fronting the enemy again ; receiving and re- 
turning their fire ; and presenting himself, equally, as a barrier 
against murderers, and a shelter to the flight of innocence and 
anguish. In the back ground of some or other of these piciures, 
might be exhibited, with powerful impression, the kindled dwell- 
ing; the sickly mother; the terrified nurse, with the new-born 
infant in her arms ; and the furious natives surrounding them, 
driving them forward, and displaying the trophies of savage vic- 
tory, and the insolence of savage triumph." 

Section VIII. Scarcely had the colonies re- 
covered from the wounds and impoverishment 
of King William's war, which ended in 1697, 
before they were again involved in the horrours 
of another war with the French, Indians, and 
Spaniards, commonly called "• Queen Anne^s 
War,^^ which continued from 1702, to the peace 
of Utrecht, March 31st, 1713. 

By the treaty of Ryswick, it was in general terms agreed, that 
France and England should mutually restore to each other all 
conquests made during the war. But the rights and pretensions 
of either monarch to certain places in Hudson's Bay, &;c. were 
left to be ascertained and determined at some future day, by 
commissioners. 

The evil consequences of leaving boundaries thus unsettled 
were soon perceived. Disputes arose, which, mingling with 
other differences of still greater importance, led England to de- 
dare war against France and Spain, May 4th, 1702. 

Section IX. The whole weight of the war in 
America, unexpectedly fell on New-England. 



PERIOD II1,...1689....1756. 93 

The geographical position of New-York particu- 
larly exposed that colony to a combined attack 
from the lakes and sea ; but just before the com- 
mencement of hostilities, a treaty of neutrality 
was concluded between the five Nations and the 
French governour in Canada. The local situa- 
tion of the Five Nations, bordering on the fron- 
tiers of New- York, prevented the French from 
molesting that colony ; Massachusetts and New- 
Hampshire were thus left to bear the chief ca- 
lamities of the war. 

The declaration of war was immediately fol- 
lowed by incursions of French and Indians from 
Canada into these colonies, who seized every 
opportunity for annoying the inhabitants by de- 
predation and outrage. 

On Tuesday, Feb. 29th, 1704, at day break, a party of French 
and Indirtns, three hundred in number, under command of the 
infamous Hextel De Rouville, fell u})on Deerfield, Mass. Un- 
happily, not only the inhabitants, but even the watch were 
asleep. They soon made themselves masters of the hou:§e in 
which the garrison was kept. Proceeding thence to the house 
of Mr. Williams the clergyman, they forced the doors, and en- 
tered the room where he wets sleeping. 

Awaked by the noise, Mr. Williams seized his pistol, and 
snapped it at the Indian who first approached, but it missed 
fire. Mr. Williams was now seized, disarmed, bound, and kept 
standing, without his clothes, in the intense cold, nearly an 
hour. 

His house was next plundered, and two of his children, toge- 
ther with a black female servant, were butchered before his eyes. 
The savages at length suffered his wife and five children to put 
on their clothes, after which, he was himself allowed to dress, 
and prepare for a long and melancholy march. 

The whole town around them was now on fire. Every house, 
but the one next to Mr. Williams' was consumed. This house 
\y still standing ; a hole cut by the savages in the door, and the 
marks of the bullets in the walls, are visible to this day. 

Having completed their work of destruction, in burning the 
town, and killing forty-seven persons, the enemy hastily retreat- 
ed, takine with them one hundred of the inhabitants, among 
whom, were Mr. Williams and bis family 



94 



THREE WARS OF WM. III....ANNE....GEO. U. 



The first night after their departure from Deerfield, the sava- 
ges murdered Mr. Williams' servant, and »n the day succeeding, 
finding Mrs. Williams unable to keep pace with the rest, plung- 
ed a hatchet into her head. She had recently borne an infant, 
and was not yet recovered. But her husband was not permitted 
to assist her. He himself was lame, bound, insulted, threatened, 
and nearly famished — but what were personal sufferings like 
these, and even greater than these, to the sight of a wife under cir 
cumstances so tender, inhumanly butchered before his eyes ! Be- 
fore the journey was ended, seventeen others shared the melanc- 
hol}^ fate of Mrs, Williams. 

On their arrival in Canada, it may be added, Mr. Williams 
was treated with civility by the French. At the end of twc 
years, he was redeemed with fifty-seven others, and returned to 
Deerfield, where, after twelve years labour in the gospel, he en- 
tered into his rest. 

Section X. In the spring of 1707, Massachu- 
setts, Rhode-Island, and New-Hampshire, fitled 
0ut an expedition against Port Royal, in Nova 
Scotia. The expedition, consisting of one thou- 
sand men, sailed from Nantucket in twenty-three 
transports, under convoy of the Deptferd man of 
war, and the Province galley. After a short 
voyage, they arrived at Port Royal ; but March, 
the commander of the expedition, though a brave 
man, being unfit to lead in an enterprise so diffi- 
cult, little was done, beyond burning a few houses, 
and killing a few cattle. 

While this unfortunate expedition was on foot, the frontiers 
were kept in constant alarm. Oyster River, Exeter, Kingston, 
and Dover, in New-Hampshire, Berwick, York, Wells, and 
Casco, in Maine, were attacked, and considerably damaged by 
the enemy. 

Section XL The colonies were now resolved 
on another attempt upon Canada. In 1 708, Mas- 
sachusetts petitioned Queen Anne for assistance, 
and she promised tci send five regiments of re- 
gular troops. Thes^e, with twelve hundred men 
raised in Massachusetts and Rhode-Island, were 
to sail from Boston to Quebec. 



PERIOD IH....1689....1756. 9^ 

A second division of one thousand eight hun- 
dred men, from colonies south of Rhode-Island, 
were to march against Montreal, - y way of 
Champlain ; but this project also failed, the land 
troops returning, after penetrating to Wood 
Creek, in consequence of learning that the naval 
armament, promised from England, had been 
directed to Portugal. 

Section XII. The patience of the colonies was 
jot yet exhausted. Another application was 
made to the Q,ueen, and in July, 1710, Col. Ni- 
cholson came over with five frigates and a bomb 
ketch, for the purpose of reducing Port Royal. 
In this expedition, he was joined by five regi- 
ments of troops from New-England. 

The armament, consisting of the above frigates, 
and between twenty and thirty transports, belong- 
ing to the colonies, sailed from Boston, Septem- 
ber 18th. On the' 24th, it reached Port Royal, 
which surrendered October 5th, and in honour 
of Queen Anne, was called Annapolis, 

Animated with his success, Nicholson soon after sailed for 
England, to solicit another expedition against Canada. Con- 
trary to the expectations of the colonies, the ministry acceded 
to the proposal, and orders were issued to the northern colonies 
to get ready their quotas of men. 

Sixteen days after these orders arrived, a fleet of men of wai 
and transports, under command of Sir Hovenden Walker, with 
seven regiments of the duke of Marlborough's troops, and a bat- 
talion of marines, under Brigadier Gen. Hill, sailed into Boston. 
But the fleet had neither provisions nor pilots. Aided, how- 
ever, by the prompt and active exertions of the colonies, on the 
30th of July, the fleet, consisting of fifteen men of war, fdrty 
transports, and six store ships, with nearly seven thousand men, 
sailed from Boston for Canada. 

Shortly after the departure of the fleet, general Nicholson pro- 
ceeded from Albany towards Canada, at the head of four thou- 
sand men, from the colonies of Connecticut, New-York, and 
New-Jersey. 

The fleet arrived in the St. Lawrence, Aug. 14th. In proceed- 



95 THREL WARS OF WM. III....ANNE...GEO. II. 

ing up the river, through the unskilfulness of the pilots, and by 
contrary winds, it was in imminent danger of entire destruction. 
On the 22d, about midnight, the seamen discovered that they 
were driven on the north shore, among islands and rocks. 
Eight or nine of the British transports, on board of which were 
about one thousand seven hundred officers and soldiers, were 
cast away, and nearly one thousand men were lost. Upon this 
disaster, no further attempts were made to prosecute the expe- 
dition. The fleet sailed directly for England, and the provin- 
cial troops returned home. Gen. Nicholson, who had advanced 
to Lake George, hearing of the miscarriage of the expedition on 
the St. Lawrence, returned with the land forces, and abandoned 
the enterprise. 

The failure of this expedition was unjustly imputed, by the 
mother country, wholly lo New-England ; nor did the colonies 
receive any credit for their vigorous exertions in raising men, 
and fitting out the fleet. The expedition was not, however, 
without a beneficial eftect, as it probably prevented Annapolis 
from faUing into the hands of the enemy. 

Section XIII. The spring of 1712 opened 
with new depredations of the enemy upon the 
frontier settlements. Oyster River, Exeter, 
York, Wells, &sc. were again attacked and plun- 
dered. Many inhabitants in different parts of 
the country were murdered, although, in some 
portions of the colonies, one half of the militia 
were constontly on duty. 

Section XIV. The northern colonies were not 
alone in the distresses of Queen Anne's war. 
Carolina, then the southern frontier of the Ame- 
rican colonies, had her full share in its expenses 
and sufferings. 

Before official intelligence had been received 
of the declaration of war by England against 
France and ^pain, in 170^2, although war had 
actually been declared, Cov. Moore, of the south- 
ern settlements in Carolina, proposed to tlie as- 
sembly of the colony an expedition against the 
Spanish settlement of St. Augustine, Florida. 

Although assured of its easy conquest, and of 



PERIOD II1....1689....1756. y? 

being amply rewarded by its treasures of gold 
and silver, numbers of the more considerate in 
the assembly were opposed to the expedition. 
A majority, however, being in favour of it, two 
thousand pounds were voted, and one thousand 
two hundred men were raised, of whom one 
half were Indians — but the expedition entirely 
failed. 

With the forces above named, and some merchant vessels. 
impressed as transports, Gov. Moore sailed for St. Augustine. 
The design was for Col. Daniel, an enterprising officer, to pro- 
ceed by the inland passage, and to attack the town by land, with 
a party of militia and Indians ; while Moore \> as to proceed by 
sea, and take possession of the harbour. Daniel advanced 
against the town, entered and plundered it, before the governour's 
arrival. The Spaniards, however, retired to the castle, with 
their principal riches, and with provisions for four months. 

The governour, on his arrival, could effect nothing for want 
of artillery. In this emergency, Daniel was despatched to Ja- 
maica for cannon, mortars, &c. During his absence, two large 
Spanish ships appearing oft' the harbour. Gov. Moore hastily 
raised the siege, abandoned his shipping, and made a precipitate 
retreat into Carolina. Col. Daniel, having no intelligence that 
the siege had been raised, on his return, stood in for the harbour, 
and narrowly escaped the ships of the enemy. In consequence 
of this rash and unfortunate enterprise, the colony was loaded 
with a debt of six thousand pounds, which gave rise to the first 
paper currency in Carolina, and was the means of filling the 
colony with dissension and tumult. 

Section XV. The failure of this expedition 
was soon after, in a measure, compensa-ted by a 
successful war with the Apalachian Indians, who, 
in consequence of their connexion with the Span- 
iards, became insolent and hostile. Gov. Moore, 
with a body of white men and Indian allies, march- 
ed into the heart of their country, and compelled 
them to submit to the English. 

All the towns of the tribes between the rivers Altamaha and 
Savannah were burnt, and between six hundred and eight hun- 
dred Indians were made prisoners. 

Section XVI. Although this enterprise was 
9 



98 THREE WARS OF WM. 1II....ANNE GEO. II. 

successful, new dangers soon threatened the co- 
lony. Its invasion was attempted, 1707, by the 
Fiench and Spaniards, in order to annex Caro- 
lina to Florida. The expedition, headed by Le 
Feboure, consisted of a French frigate, and four 
armed sloops, having about eight hundred men 
on board. Owning to the prompt and vigorous 
measures of Johnson, who had superseded Moore 
as governour, the enemy were repulsed, and the 
threatened calamity averted. 

No sooner was the intended invasion rumoured abroad, than 
preparations were commenced to repel the enemy. The militia 
were mustered and trained, and the fortifications of Charleston 
and other places repaired. These preparations were scarcely 
completed, before the fleet of the enemy appeared. Some time 
elapsed, however, before they crossed the bar, which enabled 
the governour to alarm the surrounding country, and to call in 
great numbers ^>f the militia. 

At length, with a fair wind, the enemy passed the bar, and 
sent a su'Timons to the governour to surrender. Four hours 
were allowed him to return his answer. But the governour in- 
formed the messenger that he did not wish one minute. On the 
reception of this answer, the enemy seemed to hesitate, and at- 
tempted nothing that day. 

The day succeeding, a party of the enemy, landing on James 
Tsiand, burnt a village by the river's side. Another party of 
one hundred and sixty landed at Wando Neck. The next day, 
both these parties were dislodged — the latter party being sur- 
prised, and nearly all killed or taken prisoners. 

This success so animated the Carolinians, that it was deter- 
niined to attack the enemy by sea. This was attempted with 
a force of six vessels under command of William Rhet, but o i 
the appearance of Rhet, the enemy weighed anchor, and pre- 
cipitately fled. 

Some days succeeding this. Monsieur Arbuset appeared on 
thfc coast with a ship of force, and landed a number of men at 
Sewee Bay. Rhet sailed out against him, and at the same time, 
Capt. Fenwick crossed the river, and marched to attack the 
enemy by land. After a brisk engagement, Fenwick took the 
enemy on land, prisone»-s, and Rhet succeeded in capturing the 
ship. 

Section XVII. In 1710, a large number of Pa- 
latines, inhabitants of a Palatinate, a small terri- 



PERIOD m.-ieSS* .. 1756. (j(j 

tory in Germany, whose governour or prince is 
called a Palatine, arrived and settled on the Ro- 
anoke, in Albemarle and Bath counties, within 
the boundaries of North Carolina. These were 
a great accession to the strength and numbers of 
the colony, which, although of sixty years stand- 
ing, was exceedingly small. 

The same year, near tlirce thousand of the same people came 
to New-York. Some settled in that city and buih the oJd liU- 
theran church ; others settled on Livingston's manor. Some 
wert into Pennsylvania, and at subsequent periods, were follow 
ed by many thousands of their countrymen. 

Two years after the above settlers arrived in 
Carolina, and during Queen Anne's war, a plot 
was ^jd by the Corees and Tuscaroras, with other 
Indian tribes, to massacre the whole number. 
This plot was soon so far put in execution, that 
one hundred and seven settleis were butchered 
in their houses, in a single night. Information 
of their distress was speedily sent to Charleston ; 
soon after which, Col. Barnwell, with six hun- 
dred militia and three lumdred and fifty friendly 
Indians, explored their way through the inter- 
vening wilderness^ and came to their relief. On 
his arrival. Col. B. surprised the Tuscaroras, 
killed three hundred of them, and made one hun- 
dred prisoners. 

The surviving Indians fled to a town which had been fortifi- 
ed by the tribe ; but here they were again attacked bj?^ Barnwell, 
who killed great numbers of them, and compelled the remainder 
to sue for peace. It is estimated that the Tuscaroras, in this 
war, lost one thousand of their number. The remainder of the 
tribe, early after the war, abandoned the country, and became 
united with the Five Nations, which since that time, have been 
called the Six Nations. 

Section XVIII. The next year, March 31st, 
1 71 3, a treaty of peace was concluded at Utrecht, 
between England and France. This relieved 
the apprehensions of the northern part of the 



100 THREE WARS OF WM. III....ANNE....GEO. li. 

country, and put a welcome period to an expen- 
sive and distressing war. After the peace was 
known in America, the eastern Indians sent in 
a flag and desired peace. The govcrnour of 
Massachusetts, with his council, and vvith that 
of New-Hampshire, met them at Portsmouth, re- 
ceived their submission, and entered into terms 
of pacification. 

By the above treaty between England and France, New- 
foundland and Nova Scotia were ceded to Great Britain. It 
was also stipulated that " the subjects of France, inhabiting Ca- 
nada, and other places, shall heieafter give no hindrance or mo- 
^•^station lo the Five Nations, nor to the other nations of Indians 
kvho are friends to Great Britain. '^ By the treaty also, the 
'''rench relinquished all claim to the Five Nations, and to all 
parts of their territories, and as far as respected themsei, js, en- 
titled the British crown to the sovereignty of the country. 

Section XIX. The termination of Queer 
Anne's war gave peace to the northern colonies, 
but the contest with the Indians for some time 
continued to distress the Carolinians. 

Scarcely had the people recovered from the above war with 
the C/orecs and Tusv aroras, before they were threatened with a 
i;alannty still greater and more general. The Yamosees, a 
powerful tribe of Indians, with all the Indian tribes from Florida 
to Cape i'ear river, formed a conspiracy for the total extirpa- 
tion of the Carolinians. The 15th of April, 1715, was fixed 
upon as the day of general destruction. — Owing, however, to 
the wisdv^an, despatch, and firmness of Governour Craven, and 
the blessing of Providence, the calamity was in a measure avert- 
ed, and the colonies saved, though at the expense, during the 
war, of near fova- hundrrd of the inhabitants. The Yamosees 
were expelled the province, and took refuge among the Span- 
iards in Florida. 

Section XX. In 1719, the government of Ca- 
roliiia, which till now had been proprietary, was 
changed, the charter was declared by the king's 
privy council to have been forfeited, and the co- 
lony, from this time, was taken under the royal 
protection, under which it continued till the Ame- 
rican revolution. 



PERIOD in....l689....1756. iOl 

The people had long been disgusted with the management of 
the proprietors, and were resolved, at all hazards, to execute 
their own laws, and defend the rights of the province. A sub- 
scription to this effect was drawn up, and generally signed. 

On the meeting of the assembly, a committee was sent with 
this subscription to tlie governour, Robert Johnson, requesting 
him to accept the government of the province, under the king, 
instead of the proprietors. 

Upon his refusal, the assembly chose Col. James Moore go- 
vernour, under the crown, and on the 21st of December, 1719, 
the convention and militia marched to Charleston fort, and pro- 
claimed Moore governour in his Majesty's name. 

The Carolinians, having assumed the government, in behalf 
of the king, referred their complaints to the royal ear. On a 
full hearing of the case, the privy council adjudged that the pro- 
prietors had forfeited their charter. From this time, therefore, 
the colony, as stated above, was taken under the royal protec- 
tion, under which it continued till the American revolution. 

This change was followed, in 1729, by another, nearly as 
important. This was an agreement between the proprietors 
and the crown, that the former should surrender to the crown 
their right and interest both to the government and soil, for the 
sum of seventeen thousand five hundred pounds sterling. This 
agreement being carried into effect, the piovince was divided 
into North and South Carolina, each province having a distinct 
governour under the crown of England. 

Section XXI. It has been stated that peace 
was concluded by Massachusetts and New-Hamp- 
shire, with the eastern Indians, soon after the 
pacification at Utrecht, in 1713. This peace 
however was of short duration, dissatisfaction 
arising on the part of the Indians, because of the 
encroachments of the Enghsh on their lands, 
and because trading houses were not erected for 
the purchase of their commodities. 

The governour of Massachusetts promised 
them redress ; but the general court not carrying 
his stipulations into execution, the Indians be- 
came irritated, and, at the same time, being ex- 
cited by the French Jesuits, were roused to war, 
which, in July, 1722, became general, and con- 

9* 



102 THREE WARS OF WM. III....ANNE....GEO. II. 

tinued to distress the eastern settlements until 
1725. 

The iril)es engaged In the war, were the Norridgewocks, Pe- 
robscots. St. Francois, Cape Sable, and St. John Indians. In 
June, 1725, hostilities ceased, soon after which a treaty was 
Signed by the Indians, anc' was afterwards ratified by commis- 
sioners fro'ii Massachusetts, New-Hampshire, and Nova Scotia. 
This treaty was greatly applauded, and under it, owing to the 
more pacifick feeliiigs of the Indians, and the more faithlul ob 
servance of its stipidaiions by the English, the colonies expe- 
rienced unusual tranquiility for a long time. 

Section XXII. The settlement of Georgia 
was begun in 1733, and was named after King 
George II. of England, who was then on the 
throne. In the settlement of Georgia, two ob- 
jects were principally in view — therelief of indi- 
gent inhabitants of Great Britain and Ireland, 
and the greater security of the Carolinas. 

The charter was granted to twenty-one persons under the 
title of trustees, and passed the seals June 9lh, 1732. The first 
settlers, one hundred and sixteen in number, embarked from 
Enghtnd, in November of tiie same year, under General Ogle- 
thorpe. They landed at Charleston, whence they repaired to 
Savannah river, and commenced the town of that name. 

The colony did not flourish for many years. In their regu- 
lations for its management, the trustees enacted that all lands 
granted by them to settlers should revert back, in case of the 
failure of male succession ; although certain privileges were to 
be allowed to widows and daughters. At the same time, all 
trade with the Indians was prohibited, unless by virtue of spe- 
cial license. The use of negroes and the importation of rum 
were absolutely forbidden. 

Althouj^h tlie trustees were actuated by the purest motives — 
hy principles of humanity, and a regard to the health and moials 
of the inhabitants, this system of regulations was unfitted to the 
condition of the poor settlers, and was highly injurious to their 
increase and prosperity/. 

Emigrants, however, continued to arrive. The first adven- 
turers bein.v' poor and unenterprising, a more active and efficient 
race was desirable. To induce such to settle in the colony, 
eleven towns were laid out in shares of fifty acres each ; one of 
v/bich was offered to each new settler. Upon this, large num- 
bers of Swiss, Scotch, and Germans, became adventurers to the 



PERIOD ni....l689....1756. 106 

colony. Within three years from the first settlement, one thou- 
sand four hundred planters had arrived. 

To aid the colony, parliament made several grants of money; 
individuals also gave considerable sums for the same purpose ; 
owing, however, to the impolitick regulations of the trustees, the 
colony maintained only a feeble existence. 

Section XXlll. Upon the declaration of war 
by England against Spain, Oglethorpe was ap- 
pointed, 1740, to the chief command in South 
Carolina and Georgia. Soon after his appoint- 
ment, he projected an expedition against St. 
Augustine. Aided by Virginia and Carolina, he 
marched at the head of more than two thousand 
men, for Florida, and after taking two small 
Spanish forts, Diego and Moosa, he sat down 
before St. Augustine. Capt. Price, with seve- 
ral twenty gun ships, assisted by sea ; but after 
all their exertions, the general was forced to raise 
the siege, and return with considerable loss. 

Section XXIV. Two years after, 1742, the 
Spaniards invaded Georgia in turn. A Spanish 
armament, consisting of thirty-two sail, with three 
thousand men, under command of Don Manuel 
de Monteano, sailed from St. Augustine, and 
arrived in the river Altamaha. The expedition, 
although fitted out at great expense, failed of ac- 
complishing its object. 

General Oglethorpe was at this time at fort Simons. Finding 
hhnself unable to retain possession of it, having but about seven 
hundred men, he spiked his cannon, and, destroying his military 
stores, retreated to his head-quarters at Frederica. 

On the first prospect of an invasion, general Oglethorpe had 
applied to the governour of South Carolina for assistance, but 
the Carolinians, fearing for the safety of their own territory, and 
not approving of general Oglethorpe's management in his late 
expedition against St. Augustine, declined furnishing troops, but 
voted supplies. 

In this state of danger and perplexity, the general resorted to 
stratagem. A French soldier belonging to his army had de- 
serted to the enemy. Fearing the consequences of their learn- 



104 



THREE WARS OF WM. ni....ANNE GEO. II. 



ing his weakness, he devised a plan by which to destroy the 
credit of any information that the deserter might give. 

With this view, he wrote a letter to the French deserter in 
the Spanish camp, addressing him as if he were a spy of the 
English. This letter he bribed a Spanish captive to deliver, in 
which he directed the deserter to state to the Spaniards, that he 
was in a weak and defenceless condition, and to urge them on 
to an attack. 

Should he not be able, however, to persuade them to this, he 
wished him to induce them to continue three days longer at^heir 
quarters, in which time, he expected two thousand men, and 
six British men of war, from Carolina. The above letter, as 
was intended, was delivered to the Spanish general, instead of 
the deserter, who immediately put the latter in irons. 

A council of war was called, and while deliberating upon the 
measures which should be taken, three supply ships, which had 
been voted by C^rnlipH^ r.ppeared in sight. Imagining these to 
be the men of war alluded to in the letter, the Spaniards, in great 
haste, fired the fort, and embarked, leaving behind them seve- 
ral cannon, and a quantity of provisions. By this artful, but 
unjustifiable expedient, the country was. relieved of its invaders, 
and Georgia, and probably a great part of South Carolina, saved 
from ruin. 

Section XXV. In 1752, the colony, continu- 
insf in a languishing condition, although parlia- 
ment had at different times given them nearly 
one hundred thousand pounds, and many com- 
plaints having heen made against the system of 
regulations adopted by the trustees, they surren- 
dered their charter to the crown, upon which the 
government became regal. In 1755, a general 
court w^as established. 

SectionXXyi. March 29th. 1744, Great Bri- 
tarn, under George II. declared war against 
France affd Spain. The most important event 
of this war, in America, was the capture of Lou- 
isburg, from the French, by the New-England 
colonies, under command of sir William Pep- 
perell. 

After the peace of Utiecht, in 1713, the French had built 
Louisburg, on the island of Cape Breton, as a security to their 
;7avigation and fishery, and had fortified it at an expense of five 



PERIOD I!I....1689....1756. 105 

millions and a half of dollars. The fortifications consisted of 
a rampart of stone, nearly thirty-six feet in height, and a ditch 
eighty feet wide. There were six bastions, and three batteries, 
with embrasures for one hundred and forty-eight cannon, and 
six mortars. On an island at the entrance of the harbour, was 
another battery of thirty cannon, carrying twenty-eight pounds 
sh«t, and at the bottom of the harbour, opposite the entrance, 
was situated the royal battery of twenty-eight forty-two pound- 
ers, and two eighteen pounders. The entrance of the town, on 
the land side, was at the west, over a draw-bridge, near wnich 
was a circular battery, mounting sixteen guns of twenty-four 
pounds shot. These works had been twenty-five years in build- 
ing, and though not entirely completed, were of such strength 
that the place was sometimes called the ^'Gibraltar of xlmerica." 

The acquisition of this place was deemed emi- 
nently important to New-England, since, while in 
possession of the French, it had furnished a safe 
and convenient retreat to such privateers as dis- 
turbed and captured the inhabitants of the colo- 
nies employed in the fisheries. 

Impressed with the necessity of measures to secure this fortress, 
Governour Shirley of Massachusetts had solicited the assistance 
of the British ministry, for the acquisition of Cape Breton. 
Early in January, 1745, before receiving an answer to his let- 
ters to England, he communicated to the general court, under 
an oath of secrecy, a plan which he had formed, for an attack 
on Louisburg. To this plan strong objections were urged, and 
the proposal of the governour was at first rejected ; but upon 
recoi^sideration it was carried, by a majority of a single voice. 
Circulars were immediately addressed to the colonies, as far 
south as Pennsylvania, requesting their assistance, and that an 
embargo might be laid on all their ports. The New-England 
colonies only, however, v/ere concerned in the expedition. Of 
the forces raised, Massachusetts furnished three thousand two 
hundred and fifty ; Connecticut five hnndred and sixteen ; 
Rhode-Island and New-Hampshire, each three hundred. The 
naval force consisted of twelve ships and vessels. In two 
months the army was enlisted, victualled, and equipped for ser 
vice. 

On the twenty-third of March, an express boat, which had 
been sent to commodore Warren, in the West Indies, to invite 
his co-operation, returned to Boston, with advices from him, 
that as the contemplated expedition was a colonial affair, with- 
out orders from England, he must excuse himself from any con- 



lOQ THREE WARS OF WM. III....ANNE....GEO. II. 

cern in the enterprise. This intelhgence was peciiliarly unwel- 
come, but the g-overnour and general conceaUng the tenour of 
the advice, the army was embarked, and the next morning the 
fleet sailed. On the fourth of April, the fleet and army arrived 
in safety at Canso, where they were joined by the troops from 
New-Hampshire, and soon after, by those from Connecticut. 

Most unexpectedly to the general. Commodore Warren, with 
his fleet, arrived at Canso, having, soon after his advices by the 
express boat to Governour Shirley, received orders to repair to 
Noith America, and to concert measures with the Gt vernour 
for his majesty's service. Hearing that the fleet had sailed for 
Cans J, he proceeded directly for that port. Great was the Joy 
which pervaded the whole fleet and camp, on the arrival of this 
important auxiliary force. After a short consultation with Ge- 
neral Pepperell, Commodore Warren sailed to cruise before 
Louisburg, and, not long after, was followed by the fleet and 
army, which, on the thirtieth of April, arrived in Chy pea rouge 
bay. The enemy were, until this moment, in profound igno- 
rance that any attack was meditated against them. 

The sight of the transports gave the alarm to the French, and 
a detachment was sent to oppose the landing of the troops. 
But while the general diverted the attention of the enemy by a 
feint at one place, he v/as landing his men at another. 

The next morning, four hundred of the English marched 
round behind the hills to the northeast harbour, setting fire to 
all the houses and stores, till they came within a mile of the 
royal battery. The conflagration of the stores, in which was a 
considerable quantity of tar, concealed the English troops, at 
the same time that it increased the alarm of the French so great- 
ly that they precipitately abandoned the royal battery. Upon 
their flight the English took possession of it, and by means of a 
well directed fire from it, seriously damaged the town. 

The main body of the army now commenced the siege. For 
fourteen nights they were occupied in drawing cannon towards 
the town, over a morass, in which oxen and horses could not be 
used. Incredible was the toil ; but what could not men accom- 
plish, who had been accustomed to draw the pines of the /orest 
for masts ? By the twentieth of jMay several fascine batteries 
had been erected, one of which mounted five forty-two pounders. 
On opening these batteries, they did great execution. 

In the mean time Commodore Warren captured the Vigilant, 
a French ship of seventy-four guns, and with her five himdrfd 
and sixty men, together with great quantities of military stores. 
This capture was of ^'reat consequence, as it not only increased 
the English force and added to their military supplies, but as it 
seriously lessened the strength of the enemy. Shortly after this 



PERIOD III....1689....1756. 107 

capture, the number of tlie English fleet was considerably aug- 
mented by the arrival of several men of war. A combined at- 
tack by sea and land was now determined on, and fixed for the 
eighteenth of June. 

Previously to the arrival of this additional naval force, much 
had been accumpiished towards the reduction of the place. The 
inland battery had been silenced ; the western gate of the town 
was beaten down, and a breach effected in the wall ; the circu- 
lar battery of sixteen guns was nearly ruined, and the western 
flank c^tho king's bastion was nearly demolished. 

Such being the injured state of the works, and perceiving pre- 
parations making for a joint assault, to sustain which little pros- 
pect remained, on the fifteenth the enemy desired a cessation of 
hostilities, and on the seventeenth of June, after a siege of forty- 
nine days, the city of Louisburg, and the island of Cape Breton, 
were surrendered to his Britannick majesty. 

Thus successfully terminated a daring expedition, which had 
been undertaken without the knowledge of the mother country. 
The acquisition of the' fortress of Louisburg was as useful and 
important to the colonies, and to the British empire, as its reduc- 
tion was surprising tc that empire and mortifying to the court of 
France. 

Besides the stores and prizes which fell into the hands of the 
English, which were estimated at little less than a million ster- 
ling, security v/as given to the colonies in their fisheries ; Nova 
Scotia was preserved, and the trade and fisheries of France 
nearly ruined. 

Section XXVII. The capture of Louisburg 
roused the court of France to seek revenge. 
Under the duke D'Anville, a nobleman of great 
courage, an armament was sent to America, 
1746, consisting of forty ships of war, fifty-six 
transports, with three thousand five hundred 
men, and forty thousand stands of arms for the 
use of the French and Indians in Canada. The 
object of this expedition was to recover posses- 
sion of Cape Breton, and to attack the colonies- 
A merciful Providence, however, averted the 
blow, and by delaying the fleet, and afterwards 
disabling it in a storm, blasted the hopes of the 
enemy. 

Great was the consternation of the colonies, when the news 



108 THREE WARS OF WM. HI....ANNE....GEO. II. 

arrived that the French fleet was near the American coast, and 
greatly increased, on learning that no English fleet was in quest 
of it. 

Several ships of this formidable French fleet were damaged 
by storms ; others were lost, and one forced to return to Brest, 
on account of a malignant disease among her crew. Two or 
three only of the ships, with a few of the transports, arrived at 
Chebucto, now Halifax. Here the admiral died, through mor- 
tification; or, as some say, by poison. The vice-admiral came 
to a similar tragical death by running himself through the body. 
That part of the fleet that arrived sailed with a view to attack 
Annapolis, but a storm scattered them, and prevented the ac- 
complishment of this object. 

Section X\lll. In April, 1748, preliminaries 
of peace were signed between France and En- 
gland, at Aix la Chapelle, soon after which, hos- 
tilities ceased. The definitive treaty was sign- 
ed in October. Prisoners on all sides were to 
be released without ransom, and all conquests 
made during the war were to be mutually restored. 



Section XXIX. ^untitvu csf tiie etolo^ 

tltet!^. The colonies were now peopled with 
inhabitants, by far the greater part of whom 
were born and educated in America. And al- 
though the first settlers were collected from most, 
or all, the countries of Europe, and emigrants 
from various nations continued to flock to Ame- 
rica, still we may observe, during this period, a 
gradual assimilation of national manners and 
character. The peculiarities of each class be- 
came less distinct by intercourse with the others, 
and every succeeding generation seemed to ex- 
hibit, less strikingly those traits which distin- 
guished the preceding. 

Although this is true with respect to the American colonies 



i 



PERIOD III....1689....1756 109 

generally there were some exceptions. Some villages, or terri- 
tories, being settled exclusively by emigrants speaking a dif- 
ferent language from that generally spoken — as the Germans, 
for example — or entertaining some peculiar religious notions— 
as the Quakers — still preserved their own peculiar manners. 

But in attempting to ascribe some general character to the 
people of the colonies during this period, we might consider 
them, as during our second period, on the whole, exhibiting 
three varieties ; viz. the rigid puritan English of the north — 
the Dutch in Nev/-York — and the luxurious English of the 
south. The austerity of the north was, however, much relaxed. 
The el^ant varieties of life, which before had been prohibited, 
were tolerated, and the refinements of polished society appeared 
among the higher classes. The strong lines of Dutch manners 
in New-York were slowly disappearing, under an English go- 
vernment, and by means of the settlement of English among 
them. The manners of the south were assuming an aspect of 
more refinement, particularly among the higher classes — but 
showed little other change. 

Section XXX. iStlfefait. During this pe- 
riod, the spirit of religious bigotry and intole- 
rance may be observed to have abated in a very 
considerable degree. The conduct of those 
sects, which had called forth those severe and 
unjustifiable restrictions upon the freedom of 
religious worship, had become less ofi'enisive and 
exceptionable ; and at the close of this period, 
religious persecution had ceased in ail the colo- 
nies, and the rights of conscience were general- 
ly recognized. 

In 1692, the Mennonites were introduced into Pennsylvania, 
and settled at Germantown. Their increase, however, has been 
small. 

In in 9, the Tunkers, or General Baptists, arrived at Phila- 
delphia, and dispersed themselves into several parts of Pennsyl- 
vania. 

In 1741, the Moravians were introduced into America by 
Count Zinzendorf, and settled at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. 
Regularity, industry, ingenuity, and economy, are characteristic^ 
of this people. They have considerably increased, and are a 
respectable body of Christians. 

The German Lutherans were first introduced into the Ame- 

10 



110 THREE WARS OF WM. III.... ANNE GEO. II. 

rican colonies, during this period, and settled principally in Penn- 
svlvania and New- York. 

Episcopacy was consideiably extended during this period. 
hi 1693, it was introduced iiito New- York; into New-Jersey 
and Rhode-Island in 1702; into South Carolina in 1703, by 
law; in Connecticut in 1704. 

In J 708, the Saybrook Platform was formed by a Synod, 
composed of congregational ministers, under authority of the le- 
gislature of Connecticut. 

About the year 1737? a revival of religion very extensively 
prevailed in New-England. At this time, great numbers united 
themselves to the church, and testified by their conduct through 
life the genuineness of their profession. 

The celebrated Whitfield came to America about the year 
1740, and produced great religious excitement by his singular 
powers of pulpit eloquence. Pie did not found any peculiar sect 
in this country, although he gave rise to that of the Calvinistick 
Methodists in England. 

Section XXXI. ^V^l^t UVf& ^OmmtVtt. 

Although the trade of the colonies began to feel 
the restrictions imposed upon it by the mother 
country, still it steadily increased during this 
period. 

From the very commencement of the colonies, the mother 
country was not without her jealousies respecting their increase 
in population, trade, and manufactures. Inquiries on these 
points were instituted, and opportunities sought to keep in check 
the spirit of colonial enterprise. Laws were enacted from time 
to time, designed and calculated not only to make the colonies 
depend on the mother country for her manufactures, but also to 
limit their trade and commerce, and keep them in safe subjection 
to England. 

As illustrating this course of policy, we may notice several 
laws of parliament. In 1732, an act was passed, prohibiting 
" the exportation of hats out of the plantations of America, and 
to restrain the number of apprentices taken by hat makers.'^ 
So also the act of 17'^0j prohibited, on penalty of two hundred 
pounds," the erecti(m of any mill for slitting, or rolling of iron, or 
any plating forge to work with a tilt hammer ; or any furnace for 
making steel in any of the colonies.'' At the same time, en- 
couragement was given to export pig and bar iron to England 
for her manufactories. In like manner was prohibited the ex- 
portation from one province to another by water, a«id even the 
carriage by land, on horseback, or in a rart, of all wools ana 



PERIOD III....1689....1756. HI 

woolen goods of the produce of America. The colonies were 
also compelled by law to procure many articles from England, 
which they could have purchased twenty per cent, cheaper in 
other markets. 

But notwithstanding these restrictions, trade and commerce 
gradually and steadily increased. To England, the colonies 
exported lumber of all sorts, hemp, flax, pitch, tar, oil, rosin, 
copper ore, pig and bar iron, whale fins, tobacco, rice, fish, in 
digo, flax seed, beeswax, raw silk, &c. They also built many 
vessels Avhich were sold in the mother country. 

But the importation of goods from England, in consequence 
of the course p jrsued by the British government, was still much 
greater than tiie amount of exports to England. In 1728, sir 
William Keith stated that the colonies then consumed one sixth 
part of all the woolen manufactures exported from Great Britain, 
and more than double that value in linen and calicoes; also 
great quantities of English manufactured silks, small wares, 
household furniture, trinkets, and a very considerable value in 
East India goods. From 1739 to 1756, this importation of 
goods from England amounted to one million of pounds sterling 
^inually, on an average. 

But, if the amount of imports from Great Britain was thus 
more than the colonies exported thither, they would fall in debt 
to England. How did they pay this balance of trade against 
theni ? It was done by gold and silver obtained chiefly from the 
West India settlements, to which they exported lumber, fish of 
an inferior quality, beef, pork, butter, horses, poultry, and other 
live stock, an inferior kind of tobacco, corn, cider, apples, cab- 
bages, onions, &c. They built also many small vessels, which 
found a ready market. 

The cod and whale fisheries were becoming considerable ; 
they were principally carried on by New-England. The cod- 
fish were sold in Spain, France, England, the West-Indies, &c.; 
and the money obtained for them aided the colonies in paying 
the balance of trade against them in England. 

SectiojiXXXll. MSVitnltnVt. Agriculture, 
during this period, was greatly improved and ex~ 
tended. Immense tracts of forests were cleared, 
and more enlightened modes of husbandry were 
introduced. The number of articles produced 
by agriculture was also increased. 

The colonies now not only raised a sufficient supply of food 
for their own use, but their exports became great. Wheat and 
other English grain were the principal products of the middle 



112 THREE WARS OF WM. III....ANNE....GEO. II. 

•olonies ; grain, beef, pork, horses, butter, cheese, &c. were the 
chief products of the northern colonies ; tobacco, wheat, and 
rice, were the principal products of the south. 

In the south, also, large numbers of swine ran wild in the 
forests, living upon mast. These were taken, salted down, and 
exported to a considerable extent. 

Section XXXIII. ^VtU m%^ JJSa^ttttfaC^ 
ttttrtl^* Under the head of commerce, we have 
noticed the obstacles interposed by Great Bri- 
tain, to the progress of arts and manufactures. 
Notwithstanding these, however, the coarser 
kinds of cutlery, some coarse cloths, both linen 
and woollen, hats, paper, shoes, household furni- 
ture, farming utensils, &c. were manufactured 
to a considerable extent ; not sufficient, however, 
to supply the inhabitants. All these manufac- 
tories were on a small scale ; cloths were mad^ 
in some families, for their own consumption. 

The art of printing made considerable progress, during this 
period. A newspaper, the first in North America, called The 
Boston Weekly News-Letter, was established in 1704. Before 
the close of this period, ten others were established — four in 
New-England ; two in New-York; two in Pennsylvania ; one 
in South Carohna ; and one in Maryland. The number of 
books published was also considerable, although they were ex- 
ecuted in a coarse style, and were generally books of devotion, 
or for the purposes of education. 

Section XXXIN . }iO$lllatiOII. At the ex- 
piration of our second period, we estimated the 
population of the English colonies in America at 
200,000 souls. About the close of our third pe- 
riod, Franklin calculated that there were then 
one million or upwards, and that scarce 80,000 
had been brought over sea. 

This estimate of the population of America very nearly ac- 
cords with an estimate made in London from " authentick ati- 
thorities,'' May 1755, which is as follows: 



PERIOD ni....l689....l756. 113 



Sew-Hampshire, 30,000 

Massachusetts Bay, 220,000 
R. Island, and Provi- } ^^ qqq 

dence Plantations, ^ "^ ' 
Connecticut, 100,000 



New-England, 385,000 

Mid. and S. Colonies, 661,000 



New-York, 


100,000 


The Jerseys, 


60,000 


Pennsylvania, 


250,000 


Maryland, 


85,000 


Virginia, 


85,000 


North Carolina, 


45,000 


South Carolina, 


30,000 


Georgia, 


6,000 



Total, 1,046,000 661,000 

Section XXXV. ^mtmUOtX. The south- 
ern colonies continued to treat the subject of ed- 
ucation differently from the northern colonies, in 
this respect ; in the north, one of the first objects 
of legislation was to provide for the education of 
all classes ; in the south, the education of the 
higher classes only was an object of publick at- 
lyntion. 

The first publick institution for the purposes of education, 
which succeeded in the south, was that of William and Mary 
College in Virginia, established in l692, by the sovereigns whose 
names it bears. 

Yale College, in Connecticut, was commenced in 1700 — 
eleven of the principal ministers of the neighbouring towns, who 
had been appointed to adopt such measures as they should deem 
expedient, on the subject of a college — agreeing to found one ir 
the colony. The next year, the legislature granted them a char- 
ter. The college was begun at Saybrook, where was held the 
first commencement, in 1702. In 1717, it was removed to 
New-Haven, where it became permanently established. It was 
named after the Hon. Elihu Yale, governour of the East India 
Company, who was its principal benefaclor. n. 

The College, at Princeton, New-Jersey, called " Nassau Hall," 
was first founded by charter from John Hamilton, Esq. presi- 
dent of the council, about the year 1738, and was enlarged bv 
Gov. Belcher, in 1747- 

XXXVI. Thp history of this period presents the North A nre- 
rican Colonies to our \iew, at the same time that they were vi- 
sited with cruel and desolating wars, still advancing in popula- 

10* 



114 THREE WARS OF WM. in....ANNE....GEO. II. 

tion, extending their commerce, forming new settlements, enlarg- 
ing the boundaries of their territory, and laying wider and deep- 
er the foundations of a future nation. And, while we look back, 
with admiration, upon the hardy spirit which carried our ances- 
tors through scenes so trying, and enabled them to reap pros- 
perity from the crimsoned fields of battle and bloodshed, let us 
be thankful that our lot is cast in a happier day ; and that m- 
stead of sharing in the perils of feeble colonies, we enjoy the pro- 
tection and privileges of a free and powerful nation. 

In addition to the reflections subjoined to the account which 
we have given of the "^ Salem witchcraft," we may add another, 
respecting the danger oi popular delusion. In that portion of 
our history, we see a kind of madness rising up, and soon 
stretching its influence over a whole community. And such 
too is the pervading power of the spell, that the wise and igno- 
rant, the good and bad, are alike subject to its control, and for 
the time, alike incapable of judging, or reasoning aright. Now, 
whenever we see a community divided into parties, and agitated 
by some general excitement — when we feel ourselves borne 
along on one side or the other, by the popular tide, let us in- 
quire whether we are not acting under the influence of a Ae\ 
sion, which a few years, perhaps a iew months, or days, ma^ 
dispel and expose. — Nor, at such a time, let us regard our sin- 
cerity, or our consciousness of integrity, or the seeming clear- 
ness and certainty of our reasonings, as furnishing an absolute 
assurance that, after all, we do not mistake, and that our oppo- 
nents are not right. 

Another reflection of some importance, and one that may 
serve to guard us against censuring, too severely, the wise and 
good, is suggested by this account of the " Salem witchcraft." 
It is, that the best men are liable to err. We should not, there- 
fore, condemn, nor. should we withhold our charity from those 
who fall into occasional errour, provided their characters are 
in other respects, such as lay claim to our good opinion. 



\ 



iHiirsTeiEir 

of tlie 

UTinrTJEB STATES 




€M^:^-DlI^iDIIM]^ W2kEl 






f»lp 



UNITED STATES. 



DISTINGUISHED FOR THE FRENCH AND INDI^ 
WAR 

Extending from the Declaration of War hy 
England against France^ 1 756, to the Com^ 
mencement of Hostilities by Great Britain 
against the American Colonies, in the Battle 
of Lexington^ 1775. 

Section I. The war, which ended in the treaty 
of Aix-la-Chapelle, in 1748, had been highly in- 
jurious to the general prosperity of his Majesty's 
Colonies in America ; and the return of peace 
found them in a state of impoverishment and 
distress. Great losses had been sustained in 
their commerce, and many of their vessels had 
been seized on the coast by privateers. Bills of 
credit to the amount of several millions, had been 
issued to carry on the war, which they were now 
unable to redeem, and the losses of men in va- 
rious expeditions against the enemy, had seri- 
ously retarded the increase of population. 

The expenses of the northern colonies, including New-Eng- 
land and New- York, during the war, were estimated at not less 
than one million pounds sterling. Massachusetts alone is said 
to have paid half this sum, and to have expended nearly four 
hundred thousand pounds, in the expedition against Cape Bre- 
ton. The expenses of Carohna, for the war in that quarter, 
were not less in proportion. 

To supply the deficiency of money, bills of credit were issued 
to the amount of several millions. Th, bills issued b}^ Massa- 
chusetts, during two or three years of the war, amounted to be- 
tween two and three millions currency ; while at the tin ": of 



116 PERIOD IV....1756....1775. 

their emission, five or six hundred pounds were equal to » Ay 
one hundred pounds sterling. Before the complete redemption 
of these bills, savs Dr. Trumbull, in those colonies, where their 
credit was best suppor^d, the depreciation was nearly tioenty 
for one. 

The losses sustained by tfee colonies, in the fall of many of 
th^ bravest men, during this and the last Indian war, were se- 
VCTely felt. From 1722 to 1749, a period of twenty-seven years, 
the losses of Massachusetts and New-Hampshire equalled the 
whole increase of their numbers, whereas, in the natural course 
of population, their numbers would have more than doubled. 

Such, in few words, was the general state of 
the colonies, at the close of this war. The re- 
turn of peace was hailed as the harbinger of bet- 
ter days, and the enterprising spirit of the peo- 
ple soon exerted itself to repair the losses which 
had been sustained. Commerce, therefore, 
again flourished ; population increased ; settle- 
ments were extended ; and publick credit revived^ 

Section II. Scarcely, however, had the colo- 
nies time to reap the benefits of peace, before 
the prospect was clouded, and the sound of ap- 
proaching war filled the land with general anx- 
iety and distress. After an interval of only about 
eight years, from 1748 to May 18th 1756, Great 
Britain, under George II. formally declared war 
against France, which declaration was recipro- 
cated on the ninth of June, by a similar declara- 
tion on the part of France, under Louis XV. 
against Great Britain. 

The general cause, leading to this war, com- 
monly called the " French and Indiaii Wa?,^^ 
was the alleged encroachments of the French, 
upon the frontiers of the colonies in America, 
belonging to the English Crown. 

These encroachments were made upon Nova Scotia m the 
east, which had been ceded to Great Britain, by the 12th article 
of the treaty of Utrecht, but to a considerable part of which the 
French laid claim, and, in several places, were erecting fortifl- 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 117 

cations. In the rortl) and west, they were settling and fortify- 
ing Crown Point, and, in the west, were not only attempting to 
complete a line of forts from the head of the St. Lawrence to 
the Mississippi, but v.ere encroaching far on Virginia. 

The circumstance which served to open the 
war^ was the alleged intrusion of the Ohio Comr 
pany upon the territory of the French. This 
companyconsistedof a number of influential men, 
from London and Virginia, who had obtained a 
cliarter gram of six hundred thousand acres of 
land, on and near the river Ohio, for the purpose 
of carrying on the fur trade with the Indians, 
and of settling the country. 

The governour of Canada had early intelli- 
gence of the transactions of this company. Fear- 
ing that their plan would deprive the French of 
the advantages of the fur trade, and prevent 
communications between Canada and Louisiana, 
he wrote to the governour of New-York and 
Pennsylvania, claiming the country east of the 
Ohio to the AUeghanies, and forbidding the 
further encroachments of the English traders. 

As yet, the Pennsylvanians had principally managed the trade 
with the Indians. But, being now about to be deprived of it, 
by the Ohio Company, who were opening a road to the Poto- 
mac, they excited the fears of the Indians, lest their lands should 
be taken from them, and ^ave early intelligence to the French, 
of the designs and transactions of the Company. . 

The French governour soon manifested his hostile determina- 
nation, by seizing several of the English traders, and carrying 
them to a French port on the south of Lake Erie. — The Twight- 
wees, a tribe of Indians in Ohio, near Miami river, among 
whom the English had been trading, resented the seizure, and, 
by way of retaliation, took several French traders, and sent them 
to Pennsylvania. « 

In the mean time, a communication was open- 
ed along the French Creek and Alleghany ri- 
ver, between Fort Presqu' He, on Lake Erie, 
and the Ohio ; and French troops were station- 



118 PERIOD IV....1756....1776. 

ed at convenient distances, secured by tempo- 
rary fortifications. 

The Ohio Company, thus threatened with the 
destruction of their trade, were now loud in their 
complaints. Dinwiddie, lieut. governour of Vir- 
ginia, to whom these complaints were addressed, 
laid the subject before the assembly, which or- 
dered a messenger to be despatched to the French 
commandant on the Ohio, to demand the reasons 
of his hostile conduct, and to summon the French 
to evacuate their forts in that region 

Section III. The person entrusted with this 
service was George Washir^ton, who at the 
early a^e of twenty-one, thus stepped forth in 
the publick cause, and began that line of servi- 
ces, which ended in the independence of his 
country. 

The service to which Washington was now 
appointed, was both difficult and dangerous ; the 
place of his destination being above four hun- 
dred miles distant, two hundred of which lay 
through a trackless desert inhabited by Indians. 
He arrived in safety, however, and delivered a 
letter from Gov. Dinwiddie to the commandant. 
Having receive ' a written answer, and secretly 
taken the dimensions of the fort, he returned. 
The reply of the commandant to Gov. Dinwiddie 
was, that he had taken possession of the country, 
under the direction of the governour-general of 
Canada, to whom he would transmit his letter, 
and whose orders only he would obey. 

Section IV. The British ministry, on being 
made acqiiainted with the claims, conduct, and 
determination of the French, without a formal 
declaration of war, instructed the Virginians to 
reisist their encroachments, by force of arms 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. II9 

Accordingly a regiment was raised in Virginia, 
which was joined by an independent company 
from South Carolina, and with this force, Wash- 
ington, who was appointed to command the ex- 
pedition, and was now raised from the rank of 
major to that of colonel, marched early in April, 
1754, towards the Great Meadows, lying within 
the disputed territories, for the purpose of expel- 
ling the French. The enterprise of Washing- 
ton and his troops was highly creditable to them, 
but the French forces being considerably supe- 
rior, he was obliged to capitulate, with the pri- 
vilege, however, of returning with his troops to 
Virginia. 

On his arrival at the Great Meadows, he learned that the 
French had dispossessed some Virginians of a fortification, 
which the latter were erecting for the Ohio Company, at the 
confluence of the Alleghany and Monongahela, and were en- 
gaged in completing it, for their own use. He also learned, 
that a detachment from that place, then on its march towards 
the Great Meadows, had encamped for the night, in a low and 
retired situation. 

Under the guidance of some friendly Indians, and under co- 
ver of a dark and rainy night, this party he surprised and cap- 
tured. Having erected, at the Great Meadows, a small stock- 
ade fort, afterwards called Fort Necessity, he proceeded with his 
troops, reinforced by troops from New-York, and others from 
South Carolina, to nearly four hundred me..,^ towards the French 
forf, Du Quesne, now Pittsburg, with the intention of dislodging 
the enemy. Hearing, however, that the enemy were approach- 
ing, he judged it prudent to retire to Fort Necessity. Here the 
enemy, one thousand Hve lumdred strong, under the command 
of M. de Viiliers, soon appeared and commenced a furious at- 
tack on the fort. After an engagement of several hours, de 
Viiliers demanded a parley, and offered terms of capitulation. 
These terms were rejected ; but during the night, July 4th, ar- 
ticles were signed, by which Washington was permitted, upon 
surrendering the fort, to march with his troops, unmolested, to 
Virginia. 

Such was the beginning of open hostilities, 
which were succeeded by a series of other hos- 



120 MIRIOD IV....1756....1775. 

tilities characterised by the spirit and manner of 
war, although the formal declaration of war was 
not made mitil 1756, two years after, as already 
mentioned. 

Section V. The British ministry, perceiving 
war to be inevitable, recommended to the Bri- 
tish colonies in America, to miite in some scheme 
for their common defence. Accordnigiy, a con- 
vention of delegates from Massachusetts, New- 
Hampshire, Rhode-Island, Connecticut, Penn- 
sylvania, Maryland, with the lieut. governour and 
council of New-York, was held at Albany, this 
year, 1754, and apian of union adopted, resem- 
bling, in several of its features, the present con- 
stitution of the United J^iates. 

But the plan met with the approbation, nei- 
ther of the Provincial Assemblies, nor the King's 
Council. By the former, it was rejected, be- 
cause it gave too much power to the crown, and 
by the latter, because it gave too much power to 
the people. 

According to this plan, a grand council was to be formed of 
members chosen by the provincial assemblies, and sent from all 
the colonies ; which couocil, with a governour general, appoint- 
ed by the crown, and having a negative voice, should be em- 
powered to make general laws, to raise money in all the colonies 
for their defence, to call forth troops, regulate trade, lay duties, 
&c. &c. 

The plan, thus matured, was approved and signed, on the 
fourth of July, the day that Washington surrendered Fort Ne- 
cessity, and twenty-two years before the declaration of Inde- 
pendence, by all the delegates, excepting those from Connecti- 
cut, who objected to the negative voice of the governour gene- 
ral. 

One circumstance, in the history of this plan, deserves here to 
be recorded, as evincing the dawning spirit of the revolution. 
Although the plan was rejected by the provincial assemblies, 
they declared, without reserve, that if it were adopted, they 
would undertake to defend themselves from the French, without 
any assistance from Great Britain. They required, but to be 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 121 

left to employ their supplies in their own way, to effect their se- 
curity and predominance. 

The mother country was too jealous to trust such powers 
with the Americans^ but she proposed another plan, designed to 
lay a foundation for the perpetual dependence and slavery of the 
colonies. This plan was, that the governours, with one, or 
more of their council, should form a convention to concert mea- 
sures for the general defence, to erect fortifications, raise men, 
&c. &c. with power to drav/ upon the British treasury, to defray 
all chargers ; which charges should be reimbursed by taxes vpoti 
the colonies, imposed hy acts of parlianient. But to allow the 
British government the right of taxation — to lay the colonies 
under the obligations of a debt to be thus liquidated — to subject 
themselves to the rapacity of king's collectors, we scarcely need 
say, was a proposal which met with universal disapprobation. 

Section VI. Early in the spring of 1755, pre- 
parations were made, by tiie colonies, for vigor- 
ous exertions against the enemy. Fom* expedi- 
tions were planned. 07ie against the French 
in Nova Scotia ; a second against the French on 
the Ohio ; a third against Crown Point ; and a 
fourth against Niagara. 

Section YII. The expedition against Nova Sco- 
tia, consisting of three thousand men, chiefly from 
Massachusetts, was led by gen. Mocckton and 
gen. Winslow. With these troops, they sailed 
from Boston, May 20th, and on the ist of June, 
arrived at Chignecto, on the bay of Fundy. After 
being joined by three hundred British troops and a 
small train of artillery, they proceeded against 
fort Beau Sejour, which, after four days invest- 
ment, surrendered. The name of the fort was 
now changed to tliat of Cumberland. From this 
place Gen. Monckton proceeded further into tlie 
country, took the other forts in possession of the 
French, and disarmed the inhabitants. By this 
successful expedition, the English possessed 
themselves of the whole country of Nova Scotia, 
a part of which, as already noticed, the French 



122 PERIOD IV....1756....1775. 

claimed ; its tranquillity was restored and placed 
upon a permanent basis. 

In this whole expedition, the English took but twenty men. 
Large quantities of provisions and military stores fell into their 
hands, with a number of valuable cannon. 

The French force in Nova Scotia being subdued, a difficult 
question occurred, respecting the disposal to be made of the in- 
habitants. Fearing that they might join the French in Canada, 
whom they had before furnished with intelligence, quarters, and 
provisions, it was determined to disperse them among the Eng- 
lish colonies. Under this order, one thousand nine hundred 
were thus dispersed. 

Section VIII. The expedition against the 
French, on the Ohio, was led by Gen. Braddock, 
a British officer, who commenced his march from 
Virginia, in June, with about two thousand men. 
Apprehensive that Fort du Quesne, against 
which he was proceeding, might be reinforced, 
Braddock, with one thousand two hundred se- 
lected troops, hastened his march, leaving Col. 
Dunbar to follow more slowly, with the other 
troops and the heavy baggage. 

On the 8th of July, Braddock had advanced 
sixty miles forward of Col. Dunbar, and within 
twelve or fourteen miles of Fort du Quesne. 
Here he was advised by his officers to proceed 
with caution, and was earnestly entreated by Col. 
Washington, his aid, to permit him to precede 
the army, and guard against suprise. Too 
haughty and self-confident to receive advice, 
Braddock, without any knowledge of the condi- 
tion of the enemy, continued to press towards 
the fort. About twelve o'clock, July 9th, when 
within seven miles of the fort, he was suddenly 
attacked by a body of French and Indians. Al- 
though the enemy did not exceed five hundred, 
yet, after an action of three hours, Braddock, un- 
der whom five horses had been killed, w^1s mor- 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 123 

tally wounded, and his troops defeated. The 
loss of the English army was sixty-four out of 
sixty-five officers, and about one half of the pri- 
vates. 

This unfortunate defeat of Gen. Braddock is to be ascribed 
to his imprudence, and too daring intrepidity. Had he attended 
to those precautions which were recommended to him, he would 
not have been thus ambuscaded ; or had he wisely retreated from 
a concealed enemy, and scoured the thicket with his cannon, 
the melancholy catastrophe might have been avoided. But, ob- 
stinately riveted to the spot on v»hich he was first attacked, he 
vainly continued his attempt to form his men in regular order, 
although, by this means, a surer prey to the enemy, until being 
himself wounded, he could no longer be accessary to the de- 
struction of human life. 

A remarkable fact in the history of this affair remains to be 
told. Gen. Braddock held the provincial troops in great con- 
tempt. Consequently, he kept the Virginians, and other pro- 
vincialsj who were in the action, in the rear. Yet, although 
equally exposed with the rest, far from being affected with the 
fears that disordered the regular troops, they stood firm and un- 
broken, and, under Col. Washington, covered the retreat of the 
regulars, and saved them from total destruction. 

The retreat of the army, after Braddock was wounded, was 
precipitate. No pause was made until the rear division was met. 
This division on its junction with the other, was seized with 
the same spirit of flight with the retreating, and both divisions 
proceeded to Fort Cumberland, a distance of nearly one hun- 
dred and twenty miles from the place of action. 

Had the troops, even here, recovered their spirits and return- 
ed, success might still have crowned the expedition. At least, 
the array might have rendered the most important service to the 
cause, by preventing the devastations and inhuman murders, 
perpetrated by the Frencli and Indians, during the summer, on 
the western borders of Virginia and Pennsylvania. But, instead 
of adopting a course so salutary and important, Col. Dunbar, 
leaving the sick and wounded at Cumberland, marched with his 
troops to Philadelphia. 

Section IX. The expedition against Crown 
Point was led by Gen. William Johnson, a mem- 
ber of the council of New-York, and although it 
failed as to its main object, yet its results diffused 
exultation through the American colonies, and 



124 PERIOD IV....1756....1775. 

dispelled the gloom which followed Braddock's 
defeat. 

The army, under Johnson, arrived at the south 
end of Lake George, the latter part of August. 
While here, intelligence was received that a body 
of the enemy, two thousand in number, had land- 
ed at Southbay, now Whitehall.) under command 
of Baron Dieskau, and were marching towards 
Fort Fdward, for the purpose of destroying the 
provisions and military stores there. 

At a council of war, held on the morning of 
Sept. 8th, it was resolved to detach a party to 
intercept the French, and save the fort. This 
party consisted of twelve hundred men, com- 
manded by Col. Ephraim Williams of Deerfield, 
Massachusetts. Unfortunately, this detachment 
was surprised by Dieskau, who was lying in 
ambush for them. After a most signal slaugh- 
ter, in which Col. Williams and Hendrick, a re- 
nowned Mohawk sachem, and many other offi- 
cers fell, the detachment was obliged to retreat. 

The firing was heard in the camp of Johnson, 
and as it seemed to approach nearer and nearer, 
it was naturally conjectured that the English 
troops were repulsed. The best preparations 
which the time allowed, were made to receive 
the advancing foe. Dieskau, with his troops, 
soon appeared and commenced a spirited attack. 
They were received, however, with so much in- 
trepidity — the cannon and musquetry did so 
much execution among their ranks, that the ene- 
my retired in great disorder, having experienced 
a signal defeat. The loss of the French was not 
less than eight hundred, Dieskau estimated them 
himself at one thousand, and this loss was ren- 
dered still more severe to the French, by a mor- 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 125 

tal wound which this distinguished officer him- 
self received, and in consequence of which he fell 
into the hands of the English. The loss of the 
English did not much exceed two hundred. 

Few events of no greater magnitude leave 
stronger impressions than resulted from the bat- 
tle of Lake George. Following as it did the 
discomfiture of Braddock, it served to restore the 
honour of the British arms, and the tone of the 
publick mind. 

At the time it was meditated to send a detachmant under 
Col. Williams, to intercept Dieskau, the number of men propos- 
ed was mentioned to Hendrick, the Mohawk cliief, and his opi- 
nion asked. He replied, " If they are to fight, they are too few. 
If they are to be killed, they are too many." The number was 
accordingly increased. Gen. Johnson proposed also to divide 
the detachment into three parties. Upon this Hendrick took 
three sticks, and putting them together, said to him, " Put these 
together, and you cannot break them ; take them one by one, 
and you will break them easily." The hint succeeded, and 
Hendrick's sticks saved many of the parly, and probably the 
whole army from destruction.* 

Early in the action. Gen. Johnson was wounded, and Gen. 
Lyman succeeded to the command, which he held through the 
day. To this gentleman's gallant exeriions, the success of the 
day, under Providence, was chiefly to be ascribed. Yet it is 
remarkable, that Gen. Johnson made no mention of Gen. Ly- 
man in his official letter, announcing the intelligence of the 
victory. The ambition of Johnson was too great, and his ava- 
rice too greedy, to acknowledge the merits of a rival. Gen. 
Johnson was created a baronet, and parliament voted him five 
thousand pounds sterling, in consideration of his success. The 
reward of Gen. Lyman was the esteem and honour of the peo- 
ple among whom ho lived. 

Among the wounded of the French, as already stated, was 
the Baron Dieskau. He had received a ball through his leg, 
and being unable to follow his retreating army, was found by 
an English soldier, resting upon the stump of a tree, with 
scarcely an attendant. Dieskau, apprehensive for his safety., 
was feeling for his watch, in order to give it to the soldier, wheB 



Dwight's Travels. 
11* 



126 PERIOD IV....1756....1775. 

the man, suspecting that he was feeling for a pistol, levelled his 
gun, and wounded him in the hips. He was carried to the 
camp, and treated with great kindness. From the camp he was 
taken to Albany and New- York, whence, some time after, he 
sailed for England, where he died. He was a superior officer, 
possessed of honourable feelings, and adorned with highly 
polished manners. One stain, however, attaches to his charac- 
ter. Before his engagement with Col. Williams' corps, he gave 
orders to his troops neither to give nor take quarter. 

Section X. The expedition against Niagara 
was committed to Gov. Shirley of Massachusetts, 
whose force amounted to two thousand five hun- 
dred men. But the season was too far advanced, 
before his preparations were completed, to effect 
any thing of importance. — After proceeding to 
Oswego, on Lake Ontario, the army being poor- 
ly supplied with provisions, and the rainy season 
approaching, the expedition was abandoned, and 
the troops returned to Albany. Thus ended the 
campaign of 1 755. 

Section XI. In the spring of the ensuing year, 
1756, Gov. Shirley was succeeded by Gen. Aber- 
crombie, who was appointed to command, until 
the arrival of the earl of Loudon, commander in 
chief of ail his majesty's forces in America. 

The hostilities of the two preceding years had 
been carried on without any formal proclamation 
of war ; but this year, June Dtli, as already stat- 
ed, war was declared by Great Britain against 
Prance, and soon after, by France against Great 
Britain, in turn. 

The plan of operations for the campaign of 
'56 embraced the attack of Niagara and Crown 
Pointy which were still in possession of the 
French. Both these places were of great im- 
portance ; the former being the connecting link 
in the line of fortifications between Canada and 
liouisiana ; and the latter commanding Lake 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 127 

Champlain, and guarding the only passage, at 
that time, into Canada. But important as were 
these posts, the reduction of neither was this year 
accomplished, nor even attempted, owing, chiefly, 
to the great delays of those who held the chief 
command. 

Troops were raised for the expedition against Crown Point, 
amounting- to seven thousand, the command of whom was assign- 
ed to major-general Winslow, of Massachusetts. But his march 
was delayed by obstacles ascribed to the improvidence of Aber- 
<:ronibie. 

After the mortal wound received by Dieskau, 
at the battle of Lake George, the Marquis de 
Montcalm, an able and enterprising officer, suc- 
ceeded to the command of the French forces. 
In the month of August, this officer, with eight 
thousand regulars, Canadians and Indians, in- 
vested the fort at Oswego, on the south side of 
Lake Ontario, — one of the most important posts 
held by the English in America, — and in a few 
days took it. On the receipt of this intelligence, 
lord Loudon, who had arrived in Albany, and 
entered upon the command, despatched orders 
to Gen. Winslow, on his march towards Crown 
Point, not to proceed. 

The fall of the fort at Oswego was most unfortunate for the 
English, and their loss of men made prisoners, and munitions 
of war, peculiarly severe. By the capture of this post, the ene- 
my obtained the entire command of the lakes Ontario and Erie, 
and of the whole country of the Five Nations. Sixteen hundred 
men were made prisoners, and one hundred and twenty pieces 
of cannon were taken, with fourteen mortars, two sloops of war, 
and two hundred boats and batteaux. 

After this disastrous event, all offensive opera- 
tions were immediately relinquished, although 
it was then three months to the time of the usual 
decampment of the army. Thus through the 
inactivity of a man, whose leading trait was in- 
decision, not one object of the campaign was 



128 PERIOD 1V....1756... 1775. 

gained, nor one purpose accomplished, either ho 
nourable or important. 

Section XII. Notwithstanding the failure of 
the campaign of this season, the British Parlia- 
ment made great preparations to prosecute the 
war the succeeding year, 1757. In July, an ar- 
mament of eleven ships of the line and fifty tran- 
sports, with more than six thousand troops, ar- 
rived at Halifax, destined for the reduction of 
Louisburg. — The colonies had been raising men 
for an expedition against Ticonderogaand Crown 
Point. Great was their mortification and disap- 
pohitment, when they learned from the orders 
of lord Loudon, that these troops were to be 
employed against Louisburg. Such inconstancy 
and fluctuation appeared beneath the dignity of 
the commander in chief. But they were obliged 
tc submit, and lord Loudon proceeded to join 
the armament at Halifax. 

So dilatory were their measures, however, 
that before they were ready to sail, Louisburg 
was reinforced by a fleet of seventeen sail, and 
with troops to make it nine thousand strong. 
On the reception of this intelligence, it was deem- 
ed inexpedient to proceed, and the expedition 
was abandoned. 

Section XIII. While weakness and indecision 
were marking the counsels of the English, the 
French continued to urge on their victories. 
Montcalm, still commander of the French in the 
north, finding the troops withdrawn from Hali- 
fax, for the reduction of Louisburg, seized the 
occasion to make a descent on Fort William 
Henry, situated on the north shore of Lake 
George. The garrison of the fort consisted of 
three thousand men. With a force of nine thou- 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 129 

sand men, Montcalm laid siege to it. — After a 
gallant defence of six days, the garrison surren- 
dered, thus giving to Montcalm the command of 
the lake, and of the western frontier. 

The spirited and protracted defence of the fort, against such 
numbersj reflects the highest honour upon its brave commander, 
Col. Munroe. Six days was the enemy kept at bay, with una- 
bated resolution, in full expectation of assistance from Gen. 
Webb, who lay at Fort Edward, only fifteen miles distant, with 
an army of four thousand men. 

The character of Gen. Webb continues sullied, by his unpar- 
donable indifference to the perilous situation of his brethren in 
arms, at Fort William Henry. It deserves to be known that 
Sir William Johnson, after very importunate solicitations, ob- 
tained leave of General Webb to march with as many as would 
volunteer in the service, to the relief of Munroe. 

At the beat of the drums, the provincials, almost to a man, 
sallied forth, and were soon ready and eager for the march. Af- 
ter being under arms almost all day, what were their feelings 
when Sir William, returning from head-quarters, informed them 
that General Webb had torbidden them to march ! 

The soldiers were inexpressibly mortified and enraged, — and 
their commander did himself no common honour in the tears he 
shed, as he turned from his troops, and retired to his tent. 

The defence of Fort William Henry was so gallant, that Col. 
Munroe, with his troops, was admitted to an honourable capitu- 
lation. The capitulation, however, was most shamefully broken. 
W hile the troops were marching out at the gate of the fort, the 
Indians attached to Montcalm's party, dragged the men from 
their ranks, and with all the inhumanity of savage feeling, plun- 
dered them of their baggage, and butchered them in cold blood. 
Out of a New-Hampshire corps of two hundred, eighty were 
missing. 

It is said that efforts were made by the French to restrain the 
barbarians, but the truth of the assertion may well be doubted, 
when it is considered that Montcalm's force was at least seven 
thousand French, and j^et these barbarians were not restrained. 

Section XIV. In 1758, most fortunately for 
the honour of the British arms, and for the sal- 
vation of the colonies, a change took place in the 
ministry of England. The celebrated Pitt, lord 
Chatham, now placed at the head of the admi- 
nistration, breathed a new soul into the British 



130 PERIOD IV....l76e....l775. 

eouncils, and revived the energies of the colo- 
nies, weakened and exhausted by a series of ill 
contrived and unfortunate expeditions. The tide 
of success now turned in favour of the English, 
who continued, with some few exceptions, to 
achieve one victory after another, until the 
whole of Canada surrendered to the British arms. 

Pitt, upon coming into office, addressed a cir- 
cular to the colonial governours, in which he as- 
sured them of the determinalion of the ministry 
to send a large force to America, and called upon 
them to raise as many troops, as the number of 
inhabitants would allow. The colonies were 
prompt and liberal in furnishing the requisite sup- 
plies. Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New- 
Hampshire, unitedly, raised fifteen thousand 
men, who were ready to take the field in May. 

Section XV. Three expeditions were propos- 
ed — the Jirst against Louisburg ; the second 
against Ticonderoga ; the third against Fort Du 
Quesne.* 

Section XVI. On the expedition against Lou^ 
isburg, admiral Boscawen sailed from Halifax, 
May 28th, with a fleet of twenty ships of the line, 
eighteen frigates, and an army of fourteen thou- 
sand men, under the command of brigadier Gen. 
Amherst, next to whom in command was Gen. 
Wolfe. On the 26th of July, after a vigorous 
resistance, this fortress was surrendered, and 
with it five thousand seven hundred and thirty- 
seven prisoners of war, and one hundred and 
twenty cannon, besides which the enemy lost 
five ships of the line and four frigates. At the 

* Pronounced Du-Kane. 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 131 

same timejsle Royal, St. Johns, with Cape Bre- 
ton, fell into the hands of the English, who now 
became masters of the coast from St. Lawrence 
to Nova Scotia. 

The surrender of this fortress was a more signal loss to France 
than any which she had sustained since the commencement of 
the war. It greatly obstructed her communications with Cana- 
da, and was powerfully instrumental in hastening the subjuga- 
tien of that country to the British crown. 

Section XVII. The expedition against Ticon- 
deroga was conducted by Gen. Abercrombie, 
commander in chief in America, lord Loudon 
having returned to England. An army of six- 
teen thousand men, nine thousand of whom were 
provincials, followed his standard, besides a for- 
midable train of artillery. 

Having passed Lake George, the army pro- 
ceeded with great difficulty towards the fortress. 
Unfortunately, Gen. Abercrombie trusted to 
others, who were incompetent to the task, to re- 
connoitre the ground and entrenchments of the 
enemy, and, without a knowledge of the strength 
of the places, or of the proper points of attack, 
issued his orders to attempt the lines without 
bringing up a single piece of artillery. 

The army advanced to the charge with the 
greatest intrepidity, and for more than four 
hours maintained the attack with incredible ob- 
stinacy. 

After the loss of nearly two thousand in killed 
and wounded the troops were summoned away. 
The retreat was as unhappy as the attack had been 
precipitate and ill advised. Not a doubt can ra- 
tionally exist, that had the siege been prosecuted 
with prudence and vigour, the reduction of the 
place would have been easily accomplished, 
without so great a waste of Human life, as the 



132 PERIOD 1V....1756... 1775. 

garrison amounted to but little more than three 
thousand men. 

The passage of Abercrombie, across Lake George on his 
way with his army to Ticonderoga, was effected by means of 
one thousand and thirty-five boats. The splendour of the mili- 
tary parade on the occasion was eminently imposing, and de- 
serves to be recorded. A late writer, Dr. D wight, thus de- 
scribes it. 

" The morning was remarkably bright and beautiful ; and the 
fleet moved with exact regularity to the sound of fine martial 
musick. The ensigns waved and glittered in the sun-beams, 
and the anticipation of future triumph shone in every eye. 
Above, beneath, around, the scenery was that of enchantment. 
Rarely has the sun, since that luminary was first lighted up in 
the heavens, dawned on such a complication of beauty and 
magnificence." How greatly did all the parade which was dis- 
played, and all the anticipation which was indulged, add to the 
mortification of the defeat which followed ! 

• After his repulse, Gen. Abercrombie retired 
to his former quarters on Lake George. Here, 
anxious in any way to repair the mischief and 
disgrace of defeat, he consented, at the solicita- 
tion of Col. Bradstreet, to detach him with three 
thousand men, against fort Frontenac, on the 
northwest side of the outlet of Lake Ontario. 
With these troops, mostly provincial, Bradstreet 
sailed down the Ontario, landed within a mile 
of the fort, opened his batteries, and, in two 
days, forced this important fortress to surrender. 
Nine armed vessels, sixty cannon, sixteen mor- 
tars, and a vast quantity of ammunition, <fec. &/C. 
fell into his hands. 

Section XV II I. To dispossess the French at 
Fort Du Quesne, the bulwark of their dominion 
over the western regions, vvas a third expedition 
contemplated this year. This enterprise was 
entrusted to Gen. Forbes, who left Philadelphia 
in July, but did not arrive at Du Quesne till late 
in November. The force collected for the at- 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 133 

tack amounted to eight thousand effective men. 
An attack, however, was needless, the fort hav- 
ing been deserted by the garrison the evening 
before the arrival of the army. On taking quiet 
possession of the place, Forbes, in honour of Mr, 
Pitt, called it Pittsburg. 

Notwithstanding the defeat of Ticonderoga, 
the campaign closed with honour to the colonies, 
and to the nation in general. The successes of 
the year prepared the way for the still greater 
achievements of the ensuing year. 

Section XIX. Another event of this year con- 
curred in bringing to pass the fortunate issues of 
the next. This was a treaty of peace and friend- 
ship with the Indian nations inhabiting between 
the Apalachian mountains, the Alleghanies, and 
the lakes. This treaty was concluded at Easton, 
sixty miles from Philadelphia. J7a* 5 

The managers of the treaty on the part of Great Britain, were 
the governours of Pennsylvania and New-Jersey, Sir William 
Johnson, four members of the council of Pennsylvania, six 
members of assembly, and two agents from New-Jersey. 

The tribes represented on this occasion, and with which the 
treaty was made, were the Mohawks, Oneidas, Onondagoes, 
Cayugas, Senecas, Tuscaroras, Nanticoques, and Conays, the 
Tuteloes, Chugnuts, Dela wares, Unamies, Minisinks, Mohicans, 
and Wappingers. The whole number of Indians, including 
women and children, present, amounted to five hundred. 

Section XX. The campaign of 1759 had, for 
its object, the entire conquest of Canada. For 
this purpose, it was determined, that three pow- 
erful armies should enter Canada by different 
routes, and attack, at nearly the same time, all 
the strong holds of the French in that country. 
These were Ticonderoga and Croicn Point, Ni- 
agara and Quebec, 

Section XXI. Gen. Amherst, who had suc- 
ceeded Abercrombie, as commander in chief. 

12 



134 PERIOD IV....1756....1775. 

led one division against Ticonderoga, which he 
reached July 22d. This fortress soon surender- 
ed, the principal part of the garrison having re- 
tired to Crown Point. Having strengthened Ti- 
conderoga, the army next proceeded against this 
latter place, and took quiet po^se^sion of it, the 
enemy having fled before their arrival. 

The French retired to the Isle aux Noix, situated at the north- 
ern extremity of l^ake Champlnin, where they were strongly 
encamped with a force of three thousand five hundred men, and 
a powerful artillery. Gen. Amherst designed to follow up his 
successes against them in that quarter, but the want of a suitable 
naval armameut prevented. 

Section XXII. The second division of the 
army, commanded by Gen. Frideaux, was des- 
tined against Niagara, at which place they ar- 
rived July 6th, without loss or opposition. The 
place was immediately invested : on the 24th of 
the month, a general battle took place, which 
decided the fate of Niagara, and placed it in the 
hands of the English. 

Four days previous to this battle, that able and distinguished 
officer, General Prideaux, was killed by the bursting of a co- 
horn. The command devolved on Sir William Johnson, who 
successfully put in execution the plans of his lamented prede- 
cessor. 

Section XXIII. While the English troops 
were achieving these important victories in Up- 
per Canada, Gen. Wolfe was prosecuting the 
most important enterprise of the campaign, viz. 
the reduction of Quebec. Embarking at Louis- 
burg with eight thousand men, under convoy of 
Admirals Saunders and Holmes, he landed with 
his troops in June, on the island of Orleans, a 
little below Quebec. 

After several attempts to reduce the place, 
which proved unsuccessful, Wolfe conceived the 
project of ascendinsT with his troops^ a precipice 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. llj 

of from 150 to 200 feet, by which he would reacii 
the plains of Abraham, iymg south and west of 
the city, and thus gain access to the enemy, in a 
less fortified spot. 

This ascent he cficcted with his army, and ere 
Montcalm, the French general, was aware of it, 
the army had formed on the heights of Abraham, 
and were prepared for battle. 

Here, on the morning of the 13th of Septem- 
ber, Wolfe met the French army under Mont- 
calm, and after a severe and bloody contest, in 
which both these brave commanders fell, victory 
ilecided in favour of the English. A thousand 
pr soners were taken, and a thousand of the ene 
my were killed. The loss of the English, in 
killed and wounded did not exceed six hundred. 
Five days after, the city capitulated ; the in- 
habitants w^ere to enjoy their civil and religious 
rights, and remain neutral during the war. The 
city was garrisoned under the command of Gen. 
Murray. 

Determined from the first to take the place, impregnable as 
it was accounted, the measures of Gen. Wolfe, were singularly 
bold, and apparently repugnant to all the maxims of war. His 
attention was first drawn to point Levi, on the southern bank of 
the St. Lawrence, upon which, after taking possession of it, he 
erected batteries. By means of these, he destroyed many houses, 
but from this point it was soon apparent th it little mipvession 
could be made upon tlie fortifications of the town. 

Findinq; it impracticable thus to accomplish his purpose, Wolfe 
next decided on more daring measures. For the purpose of 
drawing Montcalm to a general battle, Wolfe, with his troops, 
crossed the river Montmorenci, and attacked the enemy in the ir 
entrenchments. Owing, however, to the grounding of some ol 
the boats which convejed the troops, a part of the detachment 
did not land so soon as the others. The corps that first Ian d^d, 
witiiout waiting to form, ruslied forward, impetuously, towards 
the enemy's entrenchments. But their courage proved their, 
ruin. A close and well directed fire from the enemy cut them 
down in great numbers. 



PERIOD IV....1756....1775. 

Moiitcalm's party had now landed, and were drawn up on 
the beach in. order. Bat it was near night, a thunder storm 
\v as approaching, and the tide was rapidly setting in. Fearing 
ihe consequences of delay, Wolfe ordered a retreat across the 
Montmcwenci, and returned to his quarters on the Isle o.^ Or- 
leans. In this rencounter, his loss amounted to near six hun- 
dred of the flower of his army. 

The cjifficulties of effecting the conquest of Quebec now press- 
ed upon Wolfe with all their force. But he knew the import- 
ance of taking this strongest hold — he knew the expectations of 
his countrymen — he well knew that no military conduct could 
shine that was not gilded with success. 

Disappointed thus far, and worn down with fatigue and watch- 
ing, General Wolfe fell violently sick. Scarcely had he reco- 
vered, before he proceeded to put in execution a plan which had 
been matured on his sick bed. This was to proceed up the ri- 
ver — gain the heights of Abraham, and draw Montcalm to a 
general engagement. 

Accordingly, the troops were transported up tlie river about 
nioe miles. On the 12th of Sept. one hour after midnight, 
Wolfe and his troops left the ships, and in boats silently drop- 
ped down the current, intending to land a league above Cape 
Diamond, and there ascend the bank leading to the station he 
wished to gain. Owing, however, to the rapidity of the river, 
they fell below the intended place, and landed a mile, or a mile 
and a half, above the city. 

The operation was a critical one, as they had to navigate, in 
silence, down a rapid stream, and to find a right place for land- 
ing, which, amidst surrounding darkness, might be easily mis- 
taken. Besides this, the shore was shelving, and the bank so 
steep and loft ', as scarcely to be ascended even without oppo- 
sition from an ei'emy. Indeed the attempt was in the greatest 
danger of being defeated by an occurrence peculiarly interesting, 
as marking the very great delicacy of the transaction. 

One of the French sentinels, posted along the shore, as the 
English boats were descending, challenged them in the custo- 
mary military language of the French. " Qui vit ?" " who goes 
there?''; to which a captain in Frazer's regiment, \^ho had 
served in Holland, and was familiar with the French language 
and custosns, promptly replied, " la France^ The next ques- 
tion was still more embarrassing, for the sentinel demanded " a 
quel regiment V ''' to what regiment.'' The captain, who hap- 
pened to know the name of a regiment which was up the river, 
with Bougainville, promptly rejoined, " </fi la Reine,^^ "the 
Queen's." The soldier immediately replied, ^' passe, ^^ for he 
•oncluded at once, that tb»« was a French convoy of provisions^ 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 137 

which as the English had learned from some deserters, was ex- 
pected to pass down the river to Quebec. The other sentinels 
were deceived in a similar manner ; but one, less credulous than 
the rest, running down to the water's edge, called out " Pour 
quois est ce que vous ne parlez plus haut ?" " Why dont you 
speak louder ?" The same captain, with perfect self-command, 
replied, " Tazs toi, nous serons eniendusP^ "Hush, we shall 
be overheard and discovered !" The sentry, satisfied with this 
caution, retired, and the boats passed in safety.* 

About an hour before day, the army began to ascend the pre- 
cipice, the distance of one hundred and tifty or two hundred 
feet, almost perpendicular ascent, above which spread the plains 
of Abraham. By day-light, Sept. 13th, this almost incredible 
enterprise had been effected — the desired station was attained, 
the army was formed, and ready to meet the enemy. 

To Montcalm, the intelligence that the English were occupy- 
ing the heights of Abraham was most surprising. The impossi- 
bility of ascending the precipice he considered certain, and there- 
fore had taken no measures to fortify its line. But no sooner 
was he informed of the position of the English army, than per- 
ceiving a battle no longer to be avoided, he prepared to fight. 
Between nine and ten o'clock, the two armies, about equal in 
'lumbers, met face to face. 

The battle now commenced. Inattentive to the fire of a body 
»f Canadians and Indians, one thousand five hundred of whom 
ilontcalm had stationed in the cornfields and bushes, Wolfe di- 
ected his troops to reserve their fire for the main body of the 
French, now rapidly advancing. On their approach within 
forty yards, the English opened their fire and the destruction 
became immense. 

The French fought bravely, but their ranks became disorder- 
ed, and, notwithstanding the repeated efforts of their officers to 
form them, and to renew the attack, they were so successfully 
pushed by the British bayonet, and hewn down by the Highland 
broadsword, that their discomfiture was complete. 

Daring the action, Montcalm was on the French left, and 
Wolfe on the English riofht, and here they both fell in the criti 
cal moment that decided the victory. Early in the battle, Wolfe 
received a ball in his wrist, but binding his handkerchief around 
it, he continued to encourage his men. — Shortly after, another 
ball penetrated his groin ; but this wound, although much more 
severe, he concealed, and continued to urge on the contest, till 



Silliman's Tour, from Smollet 

12* 



38 PERIOD IV....17S6....1775. 

a third bullet pierced his breast. He was now obliged, though 
reluctantly, to be carried to the rear of the line. 

Gen. Monckton succeeded to the command, but was immedi- 
ately wounded, and conveyed away. In this critical state of 
the action, the command devolved on Gen. Townshend. Qen. 
Montcalm, fighting in front of his battalion, received a mortal 
wound about the same time, and Gen. Jennezergus, his second 
in command, fell near his side. 

Wolfe died in the field, before the battle was ended ; but he 
lived long enough to know that the victory was his. — While 
leaning on the shoulder of a lieutenant, who kneeled to support 
him, he was seized with the agonies of death : at this moment 
was heard the distant sound, " They fly-' — '• they fly." The 
hero raised his drooping head, and eagerly asked, " Who fly ?" 
Being told that it v/as the I'lench — ^' Then," he replied, " I die 
happy," and expired. 

" This death," says professor Siiliman, ''^ has furnished a 
grand and pathetic subject for the painter, the poet, and the his- 
torian, and undoubtedly, considered as a specimen of mere mili- 
tary glory, it is one of the most sublime that the annals of war 
afford." 

Montcalm was every way worthy of being the competitor of 
Wolfe. In talents — in military skill — in personal courage, he 
was not his inferioiir. Nor was his death much less sublime. 
He lived to be carried to the city, where his last moments were 
employed in writing, with his own hand, a letter to the English 
genera], recommending the French prisoners to his care and hu- 
manity. When informed that his wound was mortal, he replied, 
" I shall not then live to see the surrender of Quebec." 

The following interesting particulars, relating to the dangers 
and sufferings of two officers of the English army, during the 
battle, we shall be excused for inserting, notwithstanding their 
'ength. 

" Captain Ochterlony and Ensign Peyton, belonged to the 
refriment of Brigadier-General IMonckton. They were nearly 
of an age, which did not exceed thirty ; the first was a North- 
Briton, the other a native of Ireland. Both were agreeable in 
person, and were connected together by the ties of mutual friend- 
ship and esteem. On the day that preceded the battle, captain 
Ochterlony had foM»ht a duel witli a German officer, in which, 
though he wounded and disarmed his antagonist, yet he himself re- 
ceived a dangerous hurt under the ri^ht arm, in consequence of 
which his friends insisted on his remaining in camp during the 
action of next day ; but his spirit was too great to comply with this 
re«ionstrance. He declared it should never be said that a scratch, 
jeceived in a private rencounter, had prevented him from doing 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 139 

his duty, when his country required his service ; and he took 
tlie lield with a l\isil in his hand, though he was hanlly able lo 
carry his arms. In leading up his men to die enemy s entrench- 
ment, he was shot throiigli the hmgs with a musket ball, an ac- 
cident which obliged him to part with his tusil, but he still con- 
tinued advancing, until, by loss of blood, he became too weak to 
proceed further. About the same time, Mr. Peyton was lamed 
by a shot, which shattered the small bone of his Irft leg. The 
soldiers, in their retreat, earnestly begged, with tears in their 
eyes, that captain Ochterlony would allow them to carry him 
and the ensign off the field. But he was so bigotted to a severe 
point of honour, that he would -not quit the ground, though he 
desired they would take care of his ensign. Mr. Peyton, with 
a generous, disdain, rejected their good offices, declaring that he 
would not leave his captain in such a situation ; and in a little 
time, they remained sole survivors on that part of the field. 

" Captain Ochterlony sat down by his friend, and as they ex- 
pected nothing but immediate death, they took leave of each 
other ; yet they were not altogether abandoned by the hope of 
being protected as prisoners ; for the captain seeing' a French 
soldier, with two Indians, approach, started up, and accosting 
them in the French language, which he spoke perfectly well, 
expressed his expectation that they would treat him and his com- 
panion as officers, prisoners, and gentlemen. The two Indians 
seemed to be entirely under the conduct of the Frenchman, who, 
coming up to Mr. Peyton, as he sat on the ground, snatched his 
laced hat from his head, and robbed the captain of his watch 
and money. This outrage was a signal to the Indians for mur- 
der and pillage. One of them, clubbing his firelock, struck at 
him behind, with a view to knock him down, but the Ijlow miss- 
ing his head, took place upon his shoulder. At the same instant, 
the other Indian poured his shot into the breast of this unfortun- 
ate young gentleman, who cried out, " O Peyton ! the villain 
has shot me." Not yet satiated with cruelty, the barbarian 
sprung upon him, and stabbed him in the belly with his scalping 
knife. The captain having parted with his fusil, had no wea- 
pon for his defence, as none of the officers wore swords in the 
action. The tliree ruffians findir^g him still alive, endeavoured 
to strangle him with his own sash ; and he was now upon his 
knees, struggling against them with surprising exertion. Mr. 
Peyton, at this juncture, having a double-barrelled musket in his 
hand, and seeing the distress of his friend, fired at one of the 
Indians, who dropped dead on the spot. The other, thinking 
the ensign would now be an easy prey, advanced towards him, 
and Mr. Peyton, having taken good aim, at the distance of four 
yards, discharged his piece the second time, but it seemed to 



140 PERIOD IV....1756..,.1775. 

take no effect. The savage fired in his turn, and wounded tfct? 
ensign in the shoulder ; then rushing upon him, thrust his bayo 
net through his body ; he repealed the blow, wliich Mr. Peyton 
attempting to parry, received another wound in his left hand ; 
nevertheless, he seized the Indian's musket with the same hand, 
pulled him forwards, and with his right, drawing a dagger which 
hung by his side, plunged it in the barbarian's side. A violent 
struggle ensued ; but at length Mr. Peyton was uppermost, and, 
with repeated strokes of his dagger, killed his antagonist out- 
right. Here he was seized with an unaccountable emotion of 
curiosity, to know whether or not his shot had taken effect on 
the body of the Indian ; he accordingly turned him up, and 
stripping off his blanket, perceived that the ball had penetrated 
quite through the cavity of the breast. Having thus obtained a 
dear bought victory, he started up on one leg, and saw captain 
Ochterlony standing at the distance of sixty yards, close by the 
enemy's breast-work, with the French soldier attending him. 
Mr. Peyton then called aloud, " Captain Ochterlony, I am glad 
to see you have at last got under protection. Beware of that 
villain, who is more barbarous than the savages. God bless 
you, my dear Captain. I see a party of Indians coming this 
way, and expect to be murdered immediately." A number of 
these barbarians had for some time been employed on the left, 
in scalping and pillaging the dying and the dead that were left 
upon the field of battle ; and above thirty of them were in full 
march to destroy Mr. Peyton. This gentleman knew he had 
no mercy to expect ; for, should his life be spared for the pre- 
sent, they would have afterwards insisted upon sacrificing him to 
the manes of their brethren whom he had slain ; and in that 
case he would have been put to death by the most excruciating 
tortures. Full of this idea, he snatched up his musket, and, not- 
withstanding his broken leg, ran above forty yards without halt- 
ing ; and feeling himself now totally disabled, and incapable of 
proceeding one step further, he loaded his piece, and presented 
it to the two foremost Indians, who stood aloof waiting to be 
joined by their fellows : while the French, from their breast- 
works, kept up a continual fire of cannon and small arms upon 
this poor, solitary, maimed gentleman. In this uncomfortable 
situation he stood, when he discerned at a distance, a Highland 
officer, with a party of his men, skirting the plain towards the 
field of battle. He forthwith waved his hand in signal of dis- 
tress, and being perceived by the officer, he detached three of 
his men to his assistance. These brave fellows hastened to him 
through the midst of a terrible fire, and one of them bore him 
off on his slwulders. The Highland officer was captain Mac- 
donald, of Colonel Frazier's battalion ; who, understanding that 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 141 

t young gentleman, his kinsman, had dropped on the field of 
yattle, had put himself at the head of this party, with which he 
nenetrated to the middle of the field, drove a considerable num- 
ber of the French and Indians before him, and finding his rela- 
tion still unscalped, carried him off in triumph. Poor captain 
Ochterlony was conveyed to Quebec, where, in a few days he 
died of wounds. After the reduction of that place, the French 
surgeons who attended him, declared, that in all probability, he 
would have recovered of the two shots he had received in his 
breast, had he not been mortally wounded in the belly by the 
Indians scalping knife. 

" As this very remarkable scene was acted in sight of both 
iirmies. General Townshend, in the sequel, expostulated with 
the French officers upon the inhumanity of keeping up such a 
severe fire against two wounded gentlemen, who were disabled, 
and destitute of all hope of escaping. They answered that the 
fire was not made by the regulars, but by the Canadians and 
savages,whom it was not in the power of discipline to restrain."* 

Section XXIV. The capture of Quebec, which 
soon followed, important as it was, did not imme- 
diately terminate the war. The French in Ca- 
nada had still a powerful army, and^ some naval 
force above the city. 

Section XXV. In the ensuing spring, 1760, 
Monsieur Levi approached Quebec from Mon- 
treal, assisted by six frigates, for the purpose of 
recovering it from the English. Gen. Murray, 
who commanded the English garrison, marched 
out to meet Inm, with only three thousand men, 
and, on the 28th of April, after a bloody battle, 
fought at Sillsery, three miles above the city, the 
English army was defeated, with the loss of one 
thousand men, the French having lost more than 
double that number. 

The English retreated to Quebec, to which 
tne French now laid siege. About the middle 
of May, an English squadron arrived with rein- 



* Silliman's Tour, from Smollet 



142 PERIOD IV....1756... 1775. 

forcements, soon after which, the French fleet 
was taken and destroyed, and the siege was 
raised. 

Section XXYI. The attention of the English 
commander in chief, Gen. Amherst was now di- 
rected to the reduction of Montreal, the last for- 
tress of consequence in the possession of the 
French. To eiiect tiiis he detached Col. Havi- 
land, with a well disciplined army to proceed to 
Lake George, Crown Point, and Lake Cham- 
plain ; Gen. Murray was ordered from Quebec, 
with such forces as could be spared from the gar- 
rison, while General Amherst himself proceeded 
wiihlen thousand men, by Lake Ontario, down 
the river St. Lawrence. 

Generals Amherst and Murray arrived at Mon- 
treal the same day Sept. 6lh, and were joined 
by Haviland, on the day succeeding. While pre- 
paring to lay siege to the place, the commander 
of Montreal, M. de Yaudreuil, perceiving that 
resistance would be ineffectual, demanded a ca- 
pitulation. On the 8th, Montreal, Detroit, Mi- 
chilimackinac, and all the other places within the 
government of Canada were surrendered to his 
Brittanick Majesty. 

Section XX\iL Thus ended a war which, 
from the first hostilities, had continued six years, 
and during which much distress had been expe- 
rienced and many thousand valuable lives lost. 
Great and universal was the joy that spread 
through the colonies, at the successful termina- 
tion of a contest, so long and severe, and pub- 
lick thanksgivings were generally appointed to 
ascribe due" honour to Him, who had preserved 
to the colonies their existence and liberties. 

Section XXVIIL While the troops were em- 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 143 

ployed in the conquest of Canada, the Colonies 
of Virginia and South Carolina, suffered inva- 
sion and outrage from the Cherokees, a powerful 
tribe of savages on the West. But in 1 761 , they 
were signally defeated by Col. Grant, and com- 
pelled to sue for peace. 

Intelligence being connniuiicated to Gen. Amherst of the dan- 
ger of these coioiiies, he despatched Gen. Montgomery with one 
thousand two hundred men, for their protection and relief. 

Being joined by the forces of the province of Carolina on his 
arrival, he immediately proceeded into the country of the Che- 
rokees, plundering and destroying their villages and magazines 
of corn. In revenge, the savages besieged Fort Loudon, on the 
confines of V^irginia, which was obliged, by reason of famine, to 
capitulate. The capitulation was, however, broken, and the 
troops, while on their march to Virginia, were assaulted — num- 
-bers of them killed, and the rest taken captive. 

The next year, I76l, Gen. Montgomery being obliged to re- 
turn, Col. Grant was sent to continue tlie war. With an army 
of near two thousand six hundred men, he began his march to- 
wards the enemies' country. On the fourth day the army fell 
in with a body of savages, and after a strongly contested battle, 
put them to flight. Following up this victory. Col. Grant pro- 
ceeded to destroy their magazines, burn their corn fields, and 
consume their settlements, until, having effectually routed them, 
he returned with his troops. Soon after this, the Cherokee 
chiefs came in, and a peace was concluded. 

Section XXIX. The conquest of Canada 
having been achieved in 1763, a definitive treaty, 
the preliminaries of which had been settled the 
year before, was signed at Paris, and soon after 
ratified by the kings of England and France ; 
by which aU Nova Scotia, Canada, the Isle of 
Cape Breton, and all other islands in the gulf 
and river St. Lawrence, were ceded to the Bri- 
tish crown. 



144 PERIOD IV....1756....1775. 



l!<fiites* 



Section XXX. JWatllltt^ Xlf tf^t €^OlO=: 
IlififtS^* The change in respect to manners in the 
colonies, during this period, consisted chiefly in a 
gradual wearing away of national distinctions 
and peculiarities, and a tendency to a still great- 
er unity and assimilation of character. The ra- 
pid increase of wealth, and the frequency of in- 
tercourse with Europe, began to introduce among 
the colonies the tastes, and fashions, and luxu- 
ries of European countiies. But the introduc- 
tion of them produced little enervation of cha- 
racter among the people of America. Such an 
effect was counteracted by the bloody, but suc- 
cessful war with the French and Indians, and 
the boundless prosperity which seemed to open 
to the country, and call forth its energies. In- 
stead, therefore, of a growing weakness in the 
colonies, we perceive a more vigorous spirit of 
commercial enterprise, pervading the country ; 
a consciousness of political importance becoming 
confirmed ; and a deep and ardent love of civil 
liberty breathing over the land. 

Section XXXI. HtlfSfXIII. The only reli- 
gious sect introduced into America, during this 
period, was that of the Bhakers^ or Shaking 
Quakers^ who arrived from England in 1774, 
and settled at Niskayuna, near Albany. 

Although the spirit of religious intolerance had disappeared 
from the colonies, and the puritanical severity of the north had 
become much softened, yet until the commencement of the 
French and Indian war, the religious character of the colonies 
had remained essentially the same. But during this war, infi- 
delity was extensively introduced into the army, by means of 
the foreign English officers uud soldiers who were sent into the 
country. From the army, it spread itself into society, and pro- 



FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 145 

duced a considerable relaxation of morals, and a looser adher- 
ence to principles. 

Section XXXIL ^X^^t tinJr (KOOT^: 

VXtVtt* During this period, trade and com- 
merce made great advances ; the annual amount 
of imports from Great Britain, was about two 
and a half millions of pounds sterling, from 1756 
to 1771: from 1771 to 1773, it was three millions 
and a half annually, on an average. — The annual 
amount of exports of the colonies to Great Bri- 
tain and elsewhere, was about four million pounds 
sterling, at the close of this period. The articles 
of export, and the nature of the trade of the co- 
lonies, were essentially the same as stated in the 
notes to period third. 

In 1769, the number of ships employed by Great Britain and 
the colonies, in the trade with the colonies, was one thousand se- 
venty-eight, manned by twenty-eight thousand nine hundred and 
ten seamen. 

The whale and other fisheries in the colonies had become of 
great importance. In 177-5, there were employed in the fishery 
generally, and in carrying the fish to market from New-England, 
one thousand four hundred and fifty vessels of all descriptions, 
of one hundred thousand tons burthen, and eleven thousand fish- 
ermeh and seamen. 

Section XXXIII. ^^fltiCttUtttt* During 
this period, a gradual progress was made in ag- 
riculture, but it does not need any specifick no- 
tice. 

Section xxxiy. ^xtu aiiJ M^vixitm^ 

tlttrCl^* Great Britain still continued to oppose 
the progress of arts and manufactures in the co- 
lonies, and, therefore, there was but a moderate 
advance of these interests, during this period. 

Section XXXV. JiXBimlattiOn* At the close 
of this period, the white and black population of 
the colonies did not vary greatly from three mil- 
lions. 

Section XXX.VI. iStrtltatlOn* In the year 
13 



146 PERIOD IV....1756....1775. 

1 769, the college at Hanover, New-IIarapshire, 
was founded, and called Bartmovth College, in 
honour of the earl of Dartmouth, who was one of 
its principal benefactors. 

In 1770, the University in Rhode-Island called 
Brown Unix er sit y, was established at Provi- 
dence. It was incorporated in 1 764, and first lo- 
cated at Warren. At this place the first com- 
mencement was held, 1769. 

llttltttimin. 

XXXVII. The preceding short period of our history presents 
several interesting subjects of reflection. The American colo- 
nies became the theatre of a bloody conflict, attended by all the 
appalling features of savage war. Although feebly supported 
by England, and embarrassed by the want of political union, 
they surmounted every obstacle, and compelled the French, their 
enemies, to depart from their shores for ever. 

But no sooner was this conflict ended, than they began to 
fee], with added weight, the hand of British oppression. — Not 
humbled, however, by injustice, nor crushed by severities, they 
vigorously put forth their strength in commerce, trade, and ag- 
riculture. They spread innumerable sails upon the ocean ; 
they converted forests into meadows and wheat fields ; estab- 
lished seminaries of learning ; founded cities ; and built churches 
to God. 

Nay, more — we see that those very steps, which were taken 
by the mother country to cripple the American colonies, were 
so ordered as to add to their strength. By leaving them to bear 
the war of 1756 almost alone, she showed them that they could 
not expect defence from her : she taught them the necessity of 
relying upon their own energies ; -gave them an opportunity to 
learn the art of war, and to ascertain their own strength. 

The long line of British acts, designed to crush the colonies, 
and to keep them in humble siibjection, passed, as they were, 
in wilful ignorance of the feelings and power of America, 
awakened the spirit of the revolution, and laid the foundation 
of a great nation. ^ _ 

What a lesson may tyranny gather from this ! And how 
thankful should we be, that a just Providence is above, who re- 
gards the affairs of men — who turns aside the trampling heel of 
oppression, and causes the blood wrunr^ out by tyranny to cry 
from the ground, and to call fonh the spirit of ir.jerty ! 



of 'the 

TUTTITIEB STATES 




BA^'E'ILiiB ©w ILIB^irOT3-T(lD:^. 



lEMFYTlF^mj)., 



ITnEILISMIBJIi 1F3I8. SmBSCKEBjEIB.^^; 



im^, 



UNITED STATES. 



DISTINGUISHED FOR THE WAR OF THE REVOLU- 
TION. 

Extending from the commencement of hostilities 
hy Great Britain against the American co- 
lotiies, in the battle of Lexington, 1775, to the 
dishanding of the American Army at West 
Point, 1783. 

Section I. On the 19th of April, 1775, was 
shed at Lexington, Massachusetts, the first blood 
in the war of the revolution — a war, which ter- 
minated in the separation of the American colo- 
nies from Great Britain, and in their change from 
this humWe character and condition, to that of 
free and independent States. 

Section II. The causes, which led the colonies 
to take up arms against the mother country, de- 
serve a distinct recital in this portion of our his- 
tory, as they will clearly show the justice, wis- 
dom, and necessity of those acts of resistance, to 
which, at that trying period, resort was had. 

" The independence of America," it has been 
observed, " was found by those who sought it 
not." When the Fathers of this country left 
Great Britain, they had no intention of establish- 
ing a government independent of that of Eng- 
land. On the contrary, they came out as colo- 
nists, and expected still to acknowledge allegi- 
ance to the mother country. For many years, 



148 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

when they spoke, or wrote, or thought of Eng- 
land, it was under the filial and affectionate idea 
of " home?'^ " And even at the commencement 
of the controversy with Great Britain," if w^e 
credit those who lived at that time, " there ex- 
isted no desire^ nor intention of becoming inde- 
pendent." 

Testimony with respect to the filial disposition of the colo- 
nies towards the mother country abounds. " I profess," said 
Pownal, who had been governour and commander in chief of 
Massachusetts Bay — governour of South Carolina, &c. &c. 

" T profess," said he, in 1765, " an affection for the colonies, 
because, having lived among their people, in a private as well as 
publick character, I know them — I know that in their private 
social relations, there is not a more friendly, and in their politi- 
cal one, a more zealously loyal people in all his majesty's do- 
minions. They would sacrifice their dearest interest for the ho- 
nour of their mother country. I have a right to say this, be- 
cause experience has given me a practical knowledge and this 
impression of them. — They have no other idea of this country 
than as their home ; they have no other word by which to ex- 
press it, and till of late, it has been constantly expressed by the 
name of home." 

To the same effect is the testimony of Dr. Franklin. " Scot- 
land," said he, in 1768, " has had its rebellions ; Ireland has 
had its rebellions ; England its plots against the reigning family ; 
but America is free from this reproach ;" — " No people were 
ever known more truly loyal : the protestant succession in the 
house of Hanover was their idol." 

For these feelings of affection for the mother 
country, the colonies deserve the highest enco- 
mium. Causes existed which might have justi- 
fied a less degree of attachment, and were calcu- 
lated to produce it. These were the oppression 
and losses which they endured ; the shackles im- 
posed upon them ; the restraints upon their com- 
merce ; tlxe parsimony with which aid was admi- 
nistered by the mother country ; the maleadmi- 
nistration — the peculation and arbitrary conduct 
of the royal governours — these things were suffi- 
cient, and more than sufficient, to stifle every 



PERIOD V....1775.,..l783....REVOLUTION. 149 

feeling of affection, and shake the last remains 
of their allegiance. 

Yet, through all this oppressive subordination 
— through the calamities of war — through the 
attempt to wrest from them their charters, and 
their dearest rights — they could say, and did say, 
" England, with all thy faults, I love thee still." 

Nor is it probable that these friendly disposi- 
tions of the colonies would at this time have been 
withdrawn, had not Great Britain interrupted 
them by a grievous change of policy towards the 
inhabitants touching the subject of revenue and 
taxation. 

Before the peace of '63, this subject had been 
wisely let alone. The colonies had been per- 
mitted to tax themselves, without the interfer- 
ence of the -parliament. Till this period, it had 
sufficed for the mother country so to control 
their commerce, as to monopolize its benefits to 
herself. But from and after this period, the 
ancient system was set aside, and a different 
and oppressive . policy adopted. The first act, 
the avowed purpose of which was a revenue 
from the colonies, passed the parliament, Sept. 
29th, 1764, the preamble to which began thus : 
— '' Whereas, it is just and necessary that a 
revenue be raised in America, for defraying the 
expenses of defending, protecting, and securing 
the same, we the commons, &.c.'' The act then 
proceeds to lay a duty on " clayed sugar, indigo, 
coffee, &c. &.C. being the produce of a colony 
not under the dominion of his majesty." 

This act the colonies could not approve 
They could not approve of it, because it recog- 
nized the existence of a right to tax them — a 
right not founded in justice, and which since 

13* 



150 PERIOD V....1775....17S3....REVOLUTION. 

their existence, nearly one hundred and fifty 
years, until now, had seldom been named. But 
the colonies could submit to it, although unplea- 
vsant and unjust, nor would this act alone have 
led to permanent disaffection, had it not been 
followed by other acts, still more unjust and 
oppressive. 

On the subject of the right of the British parliament to tax 
the colonies, it was asserted in the mother country " to be es- 
sential to the unity, and of course to the prosperity, of the em- 
pire, that the British parliament should have a right of taxation 
over every part of the royal dominions." In the colonies it 
was contended, " that taxation and representation were in- 
separable, and that they could not be safe, if their property 
might be taken from them, without their consent." This claim 
of the right of taxation on the one side, and the denial of it on 
the other, was the very hinge on which the revolution turned. 

In accordance with the policy to be observed 
towards America, the next year, 1765, the fa- 
mous stamp act passed both houses of parlia- 
ment. This ordained that instruments of writ- 
ing, such as deeds, bonds, notes, &c. among the 
colonies, should be null and void, unless exe- 
cuted on stamped paper, for which a duty should 
be paid to the crown. 

When this bill was brought in, the ministers, and particularly 
Charles Townshend, exclaimed : 

'' These Americans, our own children, planted by our care, 
nourished by our indulgence, protected by our arms, until they 
are grown to a good degree of strength and opulence ; will they 
now turn their backs upon us, and grudge to contribute their 
mite to relieve us from the heavy load which overwhelms us ?" 

Col. Barre caught the words, and, with a vehemence becom- 
ing a soldier, rose and said : 

" Planted hy your care ! No ! yoiir oppression planted 
them in America; they fled from your tyranny into a then un- 
cultivated land, where they were exposed to almost »fill the 
hardships to which human nature is liable, and among"" others, 
to the savage cruelty of the enemy of the country, a people, the 
most subtle, and, I take upon me to say, the most truly terrible 
of 3iny people that ever inhabited any part of God's earth ; and 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 151' 

yet actuated by principles of true English liberty, they met all 
these hardships with pleasure, compared with those they suffer- 
ed in their own country, from the hands of those that should 
have been their friends. 

" They nourished hy your indulgence! They grew by 
your neglect ; as soon as you began to care about them, that 
care was exercised in sending persons to rule over them, in one 
department and another, who were, perhaps, the deputies of 
tlie deputies of some members of this house, sent to spy out 
their liberty, to misrepresent their actions, and to prey upon 
them : men, whose behaviour, on many occasions, has caused 
the blood of these sons of liberty to recoil within them : men, 
promoted to the highest seats of justice, some of whom, to my 
knowledge, were glad, by going to foreign countries, to escape 
the vengeance of the laws in their own. 

*^ They protected hy your arms ! They have nobly taken 
up arms in your defence, have exerted their valour amidst their 
constant and laborious industry, for the defence of a country 
whose frontiers, while drenched in blood, its interior parts have 
yielded for your enlargement the little savings of their frugality 
and the fruits of their toils. And believe me, remember, I this 
day told you so, that the same spirit which actuated that people 
at first, will continue with them still.'' 

The night after this act passed, Doctor Franklin, who was 
then in London, wrote to Charles Thompson, afterwards secre- 
tary of the Continental Congress, " The sun of liberty is set ; . 
the Americans must light the lamps of industry and economy P 
To which Mr. Thompson answered ; " Be assured we shall 
light torches of quite another sorV^ — thus predicting the con- 
vulsions which were about to follow. 

SectionlW, On the arrival of the news of the 
stamp act in America, a general indignation 
spread through the country, and resolutions were 
passed against the act, by most of the colonial 
assemblies. 

In these resolutions, Virginia led the way. On the meeting 
of the house of burgesses, Patrick Henry presented, among 
others, the following resolutions, which w^ere substantially 
adopted. 

Resolved, That his majesty's liege people of this his ancient 
colony, have enjoyed the rights of being thus governed by their 
own assembly, in the article of taxes, and internal police, and 
that the same have never been forfeited, or yielded up, but have 
been constantly recognized by the king and people of Britain 



152 PERIOD V....l775,...1783....REVOLUTION. 

Resolved^ therefore, That the general assembly of this cole 
ny, together with his majesty, or his substitutes, have, in their 
representative capacity, the* only exclusive right and power to 
lay taxes and imposts upon the inhabitants of this colony ; and 
that every attempt to vest such power in any other person, or 
persons, whatsoever, than the general assembly aforesaid, is il- 
legal, unconstitutional, and unjust, and hath a manifest tendency 
to destroy British as well as American hberty. 

Resolved, That his majesty's liege people, the inhabitants of 
this colony, are not bound to yield obedience to any law or 
ordinance whatever, designed to impose any taxation whatever 
upon them, other than the laws or ordinances of the general as- 
sembly aforesaid. 

Resolved, That any person who shall, by speaking or writing, 
assert or maintain that any person, or persons, other than the 
geneial assembly of this colony, have any right or power to im- 
pose or lay any tax on the people here, shall be deemed an 
enemy to this, his majesty's colony. 

Copies of these resolutions were immediately forwarded to the 
other provinces, and served to raise still higher the general 
feeling of opposition to the conduct of the mother country. 

Section IV. In June, Massachusetts recom- 
mended a colonial congress to consult for the 
general safety. The recommendation was well 
received by most of the colonies, and in Octo- 
ber, tw^enty-eight members assembled in New- 
York, where they remonstrated against the 
stamp act, and petitioned its repeal. At the 
same time, also, they drew up a bill of rights, 
in which taxation and representation were de- 
clared to be inseparable. 

Section V. The stamp act came into opera- 
tion on the first of November. In Boston, and 
in Portsmouth, the day was ushered in by a fu- 
neral tolling of the bells. In the latter place, 
in the course of the day, a coffin, neatly orna- 
mented, and inscribed with the word Liberty, in 
large letters, was carried to the grave. Minute 
guns were fired during the movement of the 
procession to the place of interment; where an 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 153 

oration was offered in favour of the deceased. 
Similar expressions of wounded and indignant 
feeling occurred in various parts of the country. 

In some places, the stamp officers were oblig- 
ed to resign, or to secrete themselves, to escape 
the vengeance of the people. Stamps were not 
permitted to be landed, and business, in many 
places, was conducted without them. At the 
same time, associations were formed in all parts 
of the the country, by merchants, not to import 
goods until this odious act was repealed. Most 
cheerfully did the people, women as well as 
men, enter upon this self-denial. Luxuries, 
decorations, elegancies, were universally laid 
aside. 

The opposition to the stamp act in America 
was so spirited, so deep laid, so universal, that 
parliament had only the alternative, to compel 
her to submit, or to repeal it. After a long and 
angry debate on the question, the repeal was 
carried : — but accompanying the repealing act, 
was one called the declaratory act, more hostile 
to American rights than any which had preced- 
ed. The language of the act was, " that par- 
liament have, and of right ought to have, power 
to hind the colonies in all cases whatsoever, ^^ 

On the meeting; of Parliament, Jan. 7th, 1766, his majesty 
in his speech spoke of the above opposition of the colonies to 
the stamp act, in poir.ted terms of reprehension. On the mo- 
tion for an address to the king, Mr. Pitt, the independent and 
invariable friend of liberty and equal rights, was the first to of- 
fer his sentiments on the state of affairs. " It is a long time, 
Mr. Speaker," said he, " since I have attended in Parliament : 
when the resolution was taken in this house to tax America, I 
was ill in bed. If I could have endured to have been carried in 
my bed, so great was the agitation of my mind for the conse- 
quences, I would have solicited some kind hand to have laid 
me down on this floor to have borne my testimony against it. 



134 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

It is my opinion that this kingdom has no right to lay a tax 
upon the colonies." 

Upon concluding his speechj a silence of some minutes suc- 
ceeded. No one appeared inclined to take the part of the late 
minister, or to rouse the lion, which lay basking in the eye of 
I the great Commoner who had just sat down. At length, Mr 
Grenviile rose to reply. After declaring the tumult in America 
to border upon rebellion, and insisting upon the constitutional 
light of Parliament to tax the colonies, he concluded as follows : 
" Ungrateful people of America! The nation has run it«elf 
into an immense debt to give them protection ; bounties have 
been extended to them ; in their favour the act of navigation, 
that palladium of the British commerce, has been relaxed : and 
now that they are called upon to contribute a small share to- 
wards the publick expence, they renounce your auth^^rity- insult 
your officers, and break out, I might almost say, into open re- 
bellion." 

Mr. Grenviile had scarcely taken his seat, when Mr. Pitt, 
rose to reply — but the rules of the house forbidding him to 
speak twice on the same motion, he was called to order, and in 
obedience to the call, was resuming his seat, when the loud and 
repeated cry of " Go on," induced him once more to take the 
floor. In the course of his speech he said, " We are told 
America is obstinate — iimerica is in open rebellion. Sir, I re- 
joice that America has resisted ; three millions of people so 
dead to all the feelings of liberty, as voluntarily to submit to be 
slaves, would have been fit instruments to make slaves of all 
the rest. I am no courtier of America. I maintain that Parlia- 
ment has a right to bind, to restrain America. Our legislative 
power over the Colonies is sovereign and supreme. " When," 
asks the honourable gentleman " were the colonies emancipat- 
ed?'^. At what time, say I in answer, were they made slaves ? 
I speak from accurate knowledge when I say that the profits to 
Great Britain from the trade of the colonies, through all its 
branches, is two milMoris per annum. This is the fund which 
carried you triumphantly through the war; this is the price 
America pays you for her protection ; and shall a miserable 
financier come with a boast that he can fetch a pepper-corn 
into the exchequer, at the loss of millions to the nation ? 

I know the valour of your troops- — I know the skill of your 
officers — I know the force of this country ; but in such a cause 
your siiccess would be hazardous. America, if she fell, would 
fall like the strong man : she would embrace the pillars of the 
state, and pull down the constitution with her. Is this your 
boisted peace? not to sheathe the sword in the scabbard, but 



I^ERIOD V....1775....1783 ...REVOLUTION. 155 

to sheathe it in the bowels of your countrymen ? The Ameri- 
cans have been wronged — they have been driven to madness 
by injustice ! Will you punish them for the madness you have 
occasioned ? No : let this country be the first to resume its pru- 
dence and temper ; I will pledge myself for the colonies, that 
on their part, animosity and resentment will cease. Upon the 
whole I will beg leave to tell the house in few words what is 
really my oj.'inion. It is, that the stamp act be repealed abso- 
lutely y totally and immediattly,'' 

On the 22d of February, General Conway introduced a mo- 
tion to repeal this act. The debate lasted until three o'clock 
in the morning, and never was there a debate which excited 
more warmth of interest, or more vehemence of opposition. 
The lobbies of the house were crowded with the manufacturers 
and traders of the kingdom, whose anxious countenances plainly 
' showed that their fates hung upon the issue. A division at 
length being called for, two hundred and seventy-five rose in 
support of the motion, and one hundred and sixty-seven against 
it. 

On learning this vote, the transports of the people were un- 
governable. Impressed with the conviction that they owed 
their deliverance to Mr. Pitt, their gratitude knew no bounds : 
when he appeared at the door, in the language of Burke, " they 
jumped upon him, like children on a long absent father. They 
clung to him as captives about their redeemer. All England 
joined in his applause." In the house of Peers, the opposition 
to the motion was still more obstinate. Some of the Dukes, 
and the whole Bench of Bishops were for forcing the Ameri- 
cans to submit, \vi\\\Jire and sword. Opposition however was 
at length wearied out, and the motion to repeal was carried by 
a majority of thirty-four, a compromise having been made by 
introducing the above declaratory act. 

The satisfaction of the colonies on the repeal 
of the stamp act was sincere and universal. Ele- 
vated with the idea of having removed an odious 
and oppressive burden, and believing, notwith- 
standing the declaratory act of parliament, that 
the right of taxing the colonies was at length sur- 
rendered, better feelings were indulged ; com- 
^ mercial intercourse -was revived, and larger im- 
portations of goods were made than ever. 

Section VI. The colonies, however, mistook 
the spirit and determination of the ministry. 



156 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

For, in 1767, a bill passed the parliament, im- 
posing a duty to be collected in the colonies on 
glass, paper, painter's colours, and tea. 

This act, with several others, not less arbitra- 
ry and unjust, again spread alarm through the 
colonies, and revived the lire of opposition which 
had been smothered by the repeal of the stamp 
act. Again were associations formed to prevent 
the importation of British goods ; again were 
meetings called to resolve, petition, and remon- 
strate. 

Section VII. In Feb. 1 769, both houses of par- 
liament went a step beyond all that had preced- 
ed, in an address to the king, requesting him to 
give orders to the governour of Massachusetts — 
the spirited conduct of which province was par- 
ticularly obnoxious to the ministry — to take no- 
tice of such as might be guilty of treason, that 
they might be sent to England and tried there, 

A measure more odious to the people of Ame- 
rica, or more hostile to the British constitution, 
could not be named, than for a man to be torn 
from his country, to be tried by a jury of stran- 
gers. 

The house of burgesses of Virginia met soon after the official 
accounts of this address were received, and, in a ie'w days, pass- 
ed several spirited resolutions, expressing " their Exclusive right 
to tax their constituents, and denying the right of his majesty to 
remove an offender out of the country for trial/' The next day, 
the royal governour of that colony sent for the house of burgess- 
es and addressed them laconically as follows : " Mr. Speaker, 
and gentlemen of the house of burgesses, T have heard of your 
resolves, and augur ill of their effects. You have made it my 
duty to dissolve you, and you are accordingly dissolved !" The 
assembly of North Carolina passed similar resolutions and were 
dissolved by their governour, in a similar manner. 

Section VIII. While affairs were thus situated, 
an event occurred which produced great excite- 
ment in America, particularly in Massachusetts, 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 157 

This was an affray on the evening of the fifth of 
March 1770, between some of the citizens of 
Boston, and a number of his majesty's soldiers., 
who had been sent from Halifax, and were now 
stationed at the custom house. Several of the 
inhabitants were killed, and others severely 

wounded. 

The quarrel commenced on the 2d of March, at Gray's rope 
walk, between a soldier, and a man employed at the rope walk. 
The provocation was given by the citizen, and a scuffle ensued, 
in which the soldier was beaten. On the 5th of the month, the 
soldiers while under arms were pressed upon and insulted, and 
dared to fire. One of them, who had received a blow, fired at 
the aggressor, and a single discbarge from six others succeeded. 
Three of the citizens were killed, and five dangerously wounded. 
Tlie town was instantly thrown into the greatest commotion, the 
bells were rung, and the general cry was '• to arms." In a short 
time several thousands of the citizens had assembled, and a 
dreadful scene of blood must have ensued, but for the promise 
of Governour Hutchinson, that the affair should be settled to 
their satisfaction in the morning. Captain Preston, who com- 
manded the soldiers, was committed with them to prison. Up- 
on their trial the captain and six soldiers were acquitted ; two 
were convicted of manslaughter. For several subsequent years 
the evening of the day on which this outrage was committed was 
commemorated by the citizens of Boston, and the event gave oc- 
casion to addresses the most warm and patriotick, which served 
to waken up, and increase the spirit of the revolution. 

Section IX. 1773. The recommendations of 
meetings and associations to suspend the impor-j^ 
tation of tea, had been so strictly complied with, 
that but little had been brought into the country. 
The consequence was, that vast quantities, se- 
venteen millions of pounds, had accumulated 
upon the hands of the East India Company. — 
For their relief, the parliament now authorized 
them to export this tea into any part of the world, " 
free of duty. By this regulation, tea would come 
cheaper to the colonies than before it had been 
made a source of revenue — parliament having, 

14 



ass f ERIOD V....1775....17S3,...REVOLUTION. 

in 1767, reduced the duty on it to three pence a 
pound. 

Confident of now finding a market for their 
tea in America, the East India Company freight- 
ed several ships with that article for the different 
colonies, and appointed agents to dispose of it. 
On the arrival of this tea, however, the determi- 
nation of the colonists was formed — they would 
not pay even three pence by way of duty. The 
consequence was, that cargoes of tea, sent to 
New- York and Philadelphia, were returned 
without being entered at the custom house ; and 
those sent to Charleston, S. C. were stored, but 
not oftered for sale. 

In Massachusetts, a difterent fate awaited it. 
Upon its arrival, the inhabitants endeavoured to 
procure its return, but this being impracticable, 
the tea having been consigned to the relations 
and friends of the royal governour, Hutchinson, 
they resolved to destroy it. Accordingly, a num- 
ber of persons, dressed like Indians, repaired to 
the ships, and discharged three hundred and 
forty-two chests of tea into the water, without, 
however, doing any other damage. 

Section X. Intelligence of these proceedings 
#as, on the 7th of March, 1774, communicated 
in a message from the throne to both houses of 
ParUament. The excitement was peculiarly 
strong. In the spirit of revenge against Massa- 
chusetts, and particularly against Boston, which 
was considered as the chief seat of rebellion, a 
bill was brought forward, called the '^ Bosto7i port 
hill,'''' by which the port of Boston was precluded 
from the privilege of landing and discharging, or 
of loading and shipping goods, wares, and mer- 
chandise. 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 159 

A second bill, which passed at this time, es- 
sentially altered the charter of the province, 
making the appointment of the council, justices, 
judges, &c. dependent upon the crown, or its 
agent. A third soon followed, authorizing and 
directing the governour to send any person in- 
dicted for murder, or any other capital offence, 
to another colony, or to Great Britain for trial. 

Section XI. On the arrival of these acts, the 
town of Boston passed the following vote : " That 
it is the opinion of this town, that, if the other 
colonies come into a joint resolution to stop all 
importation from Great Britain and the West 
Indies, till the act for blocking up this harbour 
be repealed, the same will prove the salvation of 
N. America and her liberties." Copies of thi^ 
vote were transmitted to each of the colonies. 

As an expression of their sympathy with the 
people of Boston in their distress, the house of 
burgesses in Virginia ordered that the day, on 
which the Boston port bill was to take effect, 
should be observed as a day of fasting and 
prayer. 

Ohs. The words Whigs and Tories were, about this time, in- 
troduced as the distinguishing names of parties. By the former, 
was meant those who favoured the cause of Boston, and were 
zealous in supporting the colonies against the parliament : by 
the latter, was meant the favourers of Great Britain. 

Section XII. During these transactions in 
Massachusetts, measures had been taken to con- 
vene a Continental Congress. On the 4th of 
Sept. 1774, deputies from eleven colonies met 
at Philadelphia, and elected Peyton Randolj)h, 
the then late speaker of the Virginia Assembly, 
president, and Charles Thompson, secretary. 
After considerable debate, it was agreed that 
each colony should have one equal vote. 



1^ PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

Having settled the manner of voting, the con- 
gress proceeded to the discharge of the high trust 
comnjitted to them. They agreed upon a de- 
claration of their rights, recommended the non- 
importation of British goods into the country, and 
the non-exportation of American produce to 
Great Britain, so long as their grievances were 
unredressed — voted an f^ddress to his Majesty — 
and likewise one to the people of Great Britain, 
and another to the French inhabitants of Ca- 
nada. 

This congress, having finished their business 
in less than eight weeks, dissolved themselves, 
after recommending another congress to be 
convened on the 10th of May ensuing, unless 
the redress of their grievances should be pre- 
viously obtained. 

Although the power of this congress was only 
advisory, their resolutions were approved, not 
only by the people, but also by the authorities, 
whether established, or provincial, and exerted 
a commanding influence in consummating that 
union airiong the colonies, whidi had been in- 
creasing with their grievances. 

The name by which the above congress is generally known 
is " the Continental Congress.^^ It consisted of fifty-five mem- 
bers, one half of whom were lawyers. After the arrival of 
the delegates from North Carolina, twelve colonies were repre- 
sejated. 

Section XIII. An assembly was ordered by 
Gov. Gage, of Massachusetts, to convene Oct. 
5th ; but before that period arrived, judging 
their meeting inexpedient, he counteracted the 
writs of convocation, by a proclamation. The 
assembly however, to the number of ninety, 
met at Salem, where the governour not attend- 
ing, they adjourned to Concord. Here they 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. ifil 

chose John Hancock president, and, after ad- 
journing to Cambridge, drew up a plan for the 
immediate defence of the province, by enlisting 
men, appointmg general officers, &c. 

In November, this provincial congress met again, and re* 
fid ved to get in readiness twelve thousand men to act in any 
emergency ; and that one fourth part of the militia should be 
enlisted as minute-men. At the same time, a request was for 
warded to Connecticut, New-Hampshire, and Rhode-Island, 
jointly to increase this army to twenty thousand men. 

Section XIV. Early the next year, Jan. 7th, 
1775, Lord Chatham, Mr. Pitt, after a long re- 
tirement, resumed his seat in the house of 
Lords, and introduced a conciliatory bill, the 
object of which was, to settle the troubles in 
America. But the efforts of this venerab?e and 
peace-making man wholly failed, the bill being 
rejected by a majority of sixty-four to ihirty- 
two, without even the compliment of lyirg on 
the table. 

The rejection of this bill was followed the next day by the 
ntroduction of a bill, which finally passed, to restrain th*» trade 
of the New-England provinces, and to forbid their fishing on 
the banks of Newfoundland. Soon after, restrictions we^e im- 
posed upon the middle and southern colonies, with the excep- 
tion of New-York, Delaware, and North Carolina. Tb« bill, 
designed to promote disunion among the colonies, happily failed 
of its object. 

Thus we have given a succinct account of the 
system of measures adopted by the ministry of 
England tow^ard the American colonies after 
the peace of '63 — measures most unfeeling and 
unjust ; but which no petitions, however respect- 
ful, and no remonstrances, however l{>'>kd, 
could change. Satisfied of this, justice permit- 
ted the people, and self-respect and self-f *e 
servation loudly summoned them, to resist hy 
force. 

Section XV. The crisis, therefore, had isiow 
14* 



162 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

arrived, the signal of war was given, and the 
blood shed at Lexington opened the scene. 

Gen. Gage, the king's governour of Massa- 
chusetts, learning that a large quantity of mili- 
tary stores had been deposited by the provin- 
cials, at Concord, detached Lieut. Col. Smith, 
and Major Pitcairn, with eight hundred grena- 
diers, to destroy them. On their arrival at 
Lexington, on the morning of the 19th of April, 
1775, seventy of the militia, who had hastily 
assembled upon an alarm, were under arms, on 
the parade. Eight of these were without pro- 
vocation killed, and several wounded. 

The greatest precaution was taken by Governour Gage^ to 
prevent the intelligence of this expedition from reaching the 
country. Officers were dispersed along the road to intercept 
expresses, who might be sent from Boston. But the precaution 
proved ineffectual. The alarm was given, and was rapidly 
spread by means of church bells, guns, and volleys. 

The slaughter of the militia at Lexington was extremely waiv* 
ton. Major Pitcairn, on seeing them on the parade, rode up to 
them, and, with a loud voice, cried out, " disperse, disperse you 
rebels; throw down your arms and disperse." The sturdy 
yeomanry not immediately obeying his orders, he approached 
nearer, discharged his pistol, and ordered his soldiers to fire. 

From Lexington, the detachment proceeded to Concord, and 
destroyed the stores. After killing several of the militia, who 
came out to oppose them, they retreated to Lexington with some 
loss, the Americans firing upon them from behind walls, hedges, 
and buildings. 

Fortunately for the British, here Lord Percy met them, with 
a reinforcement of nine hundred men, some marines, and two 
field-pieces. Still annoyed by the provincials, they continued 
their retreat to Bunker's Hill, in Charlestown, and the day fol- 
lowing crossed over to Boston. The British lost, in killed and 
wounded, during their absence, two hundred and seventy-three. 
The loss of the Americans amounted to eighty-eight killed, 
wounded, and missing. 

Section XVI. Such was the affair at Lexing- 
ton, the first action that opened the war of the 
revolution. The issue of it filled the English 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. l6S 

officers with indignation : they could not endure 
that an undisciplined multitude, that " a flock 
of Yankees,^^ as they contemptuously named 
the Americans, should have forced them to turn 
their backs. On the contrary, the result of the 
day immeasurably increased the courage of the 
Americans. The tidings spread ; the voice of 
war rung through the land, and preparations 
were every where commenced to carry it for- 
ward. 

The provincial Congress of Massachusetts, 
being in session at this time, despatched a mi- 
nute account of the affair at Lexington, to Great 
Britain, with depositions to prove that the Bri- 
tish troops were the aggressors. In conclusion, 
they used this emphatic language : '' Appealing 
to Heaven for the justice of our cause, we deter- 
mine to die, or he free,'''' 

The congress, at the same time, resolved 
that a levy should be made in the province of 
thirteen thousand six hundred men. This force 
being raised was soon after joined by troops 
from New-Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode- 
Island, and an army of thirty thousand men 
assembled in the environs of Boston. 
L Section XVII. As the war had now begun, 
and was likely to proceed, it was deemed im- 
portant to secure the fortresses of Ticonderoga 
and Crown Point. Accordingly, a number of 
volunteers from Connecticut and Vermont, un- 
der command of Col. Ethan Allen, and Col. 
Benedict Arnold, marched against Ticonderoga, 
and, on the 10th of May, took it by surprise, the 
garrison being asleep. The fortress of Crown 
Point surrendered shortly after. 

On the arrival of Allen at Ticonderoga, he demanded the 
f()rt. " By what authoritv ^" asked the commander. " I de* 



l64 PERIOD V....l775....i783....RETOLUTION. 

mand it," said Allen, " in the name of the Great Jehovah, and 
of the Continental Congress.'^ The summons was instantly 
obeyed, and the fort was, with its valuable stores, surrendered. 

Section XVIII. The taking of Ticonderoga 
and Crown Point was soon followed by the 
memorable Battle of Bunkerh Hill, as it is 
usually called, or of Breed's Hill, a high emi- 
nence in Charlestown, within cannon-shot of 
Boston, where the battle was actually fought, 
June 17th. 

The evening preceding, a detachment of one thousand Ame- 
ricans were ordered to make an intrenchment on Bunker's Hill ; 
but, by some mistake, they proceeded to Breed^s Hill, and by 
the dawn of day, had thrown up a redoubt eight rods square, 
and four feet high. 

On discovering this redoubt in the morning, the British com- 
menced a severe cannonade upon it, from several ships and 
floating batteries, and from a fortification on Copp's Hill, in 
Boston, which was continued until afternoon. The Americans, 
however, never intermitted their work for a moment, and du- 
ring the forenoon, lost but a single man. 

Between twelve and one o'clock, three thousand British un- 
der command of Major Gen. Howe, and Brigadier Gen. Pigot, 
crossed Charles River, with an intention to dislodge the Ame- 
ricans. 

As they advanced, the British commenced firing at some dis- 
tance from the redoubt ; but the Americans reserved their fire, 
until the enemy were within twelve rods. They then opened, 
and the carnage was terrible. The British retreated in preci- 
pitate confusion. They were, however, rallied by their officers, 
being, in some instances, pushed on by their swords, and were 
again led to the attack. The Americans now suffered them to 
approach within six rods, when their fire mowed them down in 
heaps, and again they fled. Unfortunately for the Americans, 
their ammunition here failed; and, on the third charge of the 
British, they were obliged to retire, after having obstinately re- 
sisted even longer than prudence admitted. The British lost in 
this engagement two hundred and twenty-six killed, among 
whom was Major Pitcairn, who first lighted the torch of war at 
Lexington, and eight hundred and twenty-eight wounded. The 
Americans lost one hundred and thirty-nine killed, and of 
wounded and missing there were three hundred and fourteen. 
Among the killed was the lamented Gen. Warren. 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. l65 

The horrours of this scene were greatly increased by the con- 
flagration of Charlestown, effected, during the heat of the battle, 
by the orders of Gen. Gage. By this wanton act of barbarity, 
two thousand people were deprived of their habitations, and 
property to the amount of one hundred and twenty thousand 
pounds sterling perished in the flames. " Wanton, however, 
as the burning of Charlestown was, it wonderfully enhanced 
the dreadful magnificence of the day. To the volleys of 
musketry and the roar of cannon ; to the shouts of the fight- 
ing and the groans of the dying ; to the dark and awful at- 
mosphere of smoke, enveloping the whole peninsula, and illu- 
mined in every quarter by the streams of fire from the various 
instruments of death -, the conflagration of six hundred buildings 
added a gloomy and amazing grandeur. In the midst of this 
waving lake of flame, the lofty steeple converted into a blazing 
pyramid, towered and trembled over the vast pyre, and finished 
the scene of desolation.''* 

To the Americans, the consequences of this battle were those 
of a decided victory. They learned that their enemies were not 
invulnerable. At the same time, they learned the importance 
of stricter discipline, and greater preparations. As the result of 
the battle spread, the national pulse beat still higher, and the 
arm of opposition was braced still more firmly. 

Section XIX. The second continental con- 
gress met at Philadelphia, on the 10th of May. 
As military opposition to Great Britain was now 
resolved upon by the colonies, and had actually 
commenced, it became necessary to fix upon a 
proper person to conduct that opposition. The 
person unanimously selected by congress was 
George Washington^ a member of their body, 
from Virginia. 

General Washington, in his reply to the President of Con- 
gress, who announced to him his appointment, after consenting 
ro enter upon the momentous duty assigned him, added : " But 
lest some unlucky event should happen unfavourable to my re- 
putation, I beg it may be remembered, by every gentleman in 
the room, that I this day declare with the utmost sincerity, I 
do not think myself equal to the command I am honoured with. 

" As to pay, sir, I beg leave to assure the congress, that as 



Dwisbt's Travels. 



166 PERIOD V....1775....1793....REVOLUTION. 

no pecuniary consideration could have tempted me to accept 
this arduous employmentj at the expense of my domestic ease 
and happiness, I do not wish to make any profit from it. I 
will keep an exact account of my expenses. Those I doubt 
not they will discharge, and that is all I desire."* 

A special commission was drawn up and presented to him, 
as commander in chief of the American forces ; on presenting 
it, congress unanimously adopted this resolution : " that they 
would maintain and assist him, and adhere to him with their 
lives and fortunes in the cause of American liberty." 

following the appointment of General Washington, was the 
appointment of four Major-Generals, Artemas Ward, Charles 
Lee, Philip Schuyler, and Israel Putnam ; and eight Brigadier- 
Generals, Seth Pomeroy, Richard Montgomery, David Wooster, 
William Heath, Joseph Spencer, John Thomas, John SuHivan, 
and Nathaniel Greene. 

Section XX. Gen. Washington, on his arrival 
at Cambridge, on the second of July, was re- 
ceived with joyful acclamations by the American 
army. He found them stretched from Roxbury 
to Cambridge, and thence to Mystic river, a dis- 
tance of twelve miles. The British forces oc- 
cupied Bunker and Breed's hill, and Boston 
Neck. 

The attention of the commander in chief was immediately di- 
rected to the strength and situation of the enemy, and to the in- 
troduction of system and union into the army, the want of which 
pervaded every department. This was a delicate and difficult 
attempt, but the wisdom and firmness of Washington removed 
every obstacle, and at length brought even independent freemen, 
in a good degree, to the controul of military discipline. 

Section XXI. Wliiie Washington was em- 
ployed in organizing his army, and preparing 
for future operations, an important expedition 



* The whole sum which, in the course of the war, passed through his 
hands amounted only to fourteen thousand four hundred and seventy-nine 
pounds sterling. After Gen. Washington's elevation to the presidency, he 
continued to send to the oomptroliers of the treasury an annual account of 
his expenses, which, in some years, amounted to thirty-one thousand 
dollars. As the salary fixed by law for thot office was no more than 
twenty-five thousand ciollars, the excess he paid out of his private fuftds. 



PERIOD V....1775....1733....REVOLUTION. 1(]7 

was planned against Canada, the charge of which 
was assigned to Gens. Schuyler and Montgomery. 
On the 10th of September, one thousand Ame- 
rican troops landed at St. Johns, the first British 
post in Canada, one hundred and fifteen miles 
north of Ticonderoga, but found it advisable to 
retire to the Isle aux Noix, twelve miles south of 
St. Johns. Here the health of Gen. Schuyler 
obliged him to return to Ticonderoga, and the 
command devolved on Gen. Montgomery. This 
enterprising ofiicer, in a few days, returned to 
the investment of St. Johns, and on the 3d of 
November, received the surrender of this import- 
ant post. 

On the surrender of St. Johns, five hundred regulars and one 
hundred Canadians became prisoners to the provincials. There 
were also taken thirty-nine pieces of cannon, seven mortars, 
and five hundred stands of arms. 

Gen. Montgomery next proceeded against 
Montreal, which, without resistance, capitulated. 
From Montreal he rapidly proceeded towards 
Quebec. 

Before his arrival, however, Col. Arnold, who 
had been despatched by Gen. Washington with 
one thousand American troopsTrom Cambridge, 
had reached Quebec by the w^ay of the Kenne- 
beck,ariver of Maine, — had ascended the heights 
of Abraham, where the brave Wolfe ascended be- 
fore him ; but had found it necessary to retire to 
a place twenty miles above Quebec, where he 
was waiting for the arrival of Montgomery. 

Seldom was there an expedition attempted during the Ameri- 
can war, in which more hardship was endured, or more untiring 
perseverance manifested, than in this of Arnold's. In ascending 
the Kennebeck, his troops were constantly obliged to work 
against an impetuous current, and often to haul their batteaux up 
rapid currents and over dangerous falls. Nor was their march 
through the country, by an unexplored route of three hundred 
miles, less difficult or dangerous. They had swamps and woods. 



168 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION-. 

mountains and precipices alternately to surpass. Added tf 
their other trials, their provisions failed, and, to support life, 
they were obliged to eat their dogs, cartouch boxes, clothes and 
shoes. While at the distance of one hundred miles from human 
habitations, they divided their whole store, about four pints oi 
flour to a man. At thirty miles distance, they had baked and 
eaten their last pitiful morsel. Yet the courage and fortitude ot 
these men continued unshaken. They were suftering for their 
country's cause, were toiling for wives and children, were con- 
tending for the rights and blessings of freedom. After thirty 
one days of incessant toil through a hideous wilderness, they 
reached ihe habitations of men. 

Dec. 1st, Montgomery having effected a junc- 
tion with Arnold, conimcnced the siege of iiiie- 
bec. After continuing the siege nearly a month 
to little purpose, the bold plan was adopted of 
attempting the place by scaling the walls. Two 
attacks w^ere made, at the sai/ie time, in different 
quarters of the town, by Montgomery and Ar- 
nold. The attempt, however, proved unsuccess- 
ful, and, to the great loss and grief of America, 
fatal to the brave Montgomery. He fell while 
attempting to force a barrier, and with him fell 
two distinguished officers, Capt. MTherson, his 
aid, and Capt Cheeseman. 

After this repuife, Arnold retired about three 
miles from Quebec, where he continued encamp- 
ed through a rigorous winter. On the return of 
spring, 1776, finding his forces inadequate to the 
reduction of Quebec, and not being reinforced, 
he retired. By the 18tk of June, the Americans, 
having been compelled to relinquish one post 
after another, had wholly evacuated Canada. 

The garrison of Quebec consisted, at the time of the above at- 
tack, of about one thousand five hundred men ; the American 
forces were near eight hundred. The loss of the Americans in 
killed and wounded was about one hundred, and three hundred 
were taken prisoners. 

The death of General Montgomery was deeply lamented both 
in Europe and America. " The most powerful ispeakers in the 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. l69 

British parliament displayed their eloquence in praising his vir- 
tues and lamenting his fall."' Congress directed a monument to 
be erected to his memory, expressive of their sense of his high 
patriotism and heroick conduct. 

Section XXII. During this year, 1775, Virgi- 
nia, through the indiscretion of lord Dunmore, 
the royal governour, was involved in difficulties 
little short of those to which the inhabitants of 
Mas'sachusetts were subjected. From the ear- 
liest stages of the controversy with Great Bri- 
tain, the Virginians had been in the foremost 
rank of opposition, and, in common with othei 
provinces, had taken measures for defence. 

These measures for defence, the roval govern- 
our regarded with an eye of suspicion, and at- 
tempted to thwart them by the removal of guns 
and ammunition, which had been stored by the 
people in a magazine. The conduct of the go 
vernour roused the inhabitants, and occasioned 
intemperate expressions of resentment. Appre- 
hending personal danger, lord Dunmore retired 
on board the Fowey man of war, from which he 
issued his proclamations, instituting martial law, 
and proffering freedom to such slaves as would 
leave their masters, and repair to the royal stand- 
ard. Here, also, by degrees, he equipped and 
armed a number of vessels, and, upon being re- 
fused provisions by the provincials, from on shore^ 
he proceeded to reduce the town of Norfolk to 
ashes. The loss was estimated at three hundred 
thousand pounds sterling. Nearly six thousand 
persons were deprived of their habitations. 

In like manner, the royal governours of North and South 
Carolina thought it prudent to retire, and seek safety on board 
men of war. Royal government generally terminated this yeaar 
throughout the country, the king's governours, for the most part, 
abdicating their governments, and- taking refuge on board the 
English shipping. 

15 



170 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

Section XXllI. Early in the spring of 1776, 
Gen. Washington contemplated the expulsion of 
the British army from Boston, by direct assault. 
In a council of war, it was deemed expedient, 
however, rather to take possession of, and fortify 
Dorchester Heights, which commanded the har- 
bour and British shipping. The night of the 
4th of March was selected for the attempt. Ac- 
cordingly, in the evening a covering party of 
eight hundred, followed by a working party of 
twelve hundred, with entrenching tools, took pos- 
session of the Heights, unobserved by the ene- 
my. 

Here thgj^ set themselves to work with so 
much activity^, that by morning, they had con- 
structed fortifications which completely sheltered 
them. The surprise of the British cannot easily 
be conceived. The English admiral after ex- 
amining the works, declared that, if the Ameri- 
cans were not dislodged from their position, his 
vessels could no longer remain in safety in the 
harbour. It was determined, therefore, by the 
British, to evacuate Boston, which they now 
did, and on the 17th, the British troops, under 
command of lord William Howe, successor of 
Gen. Gage, sailed for Halifax. General Wash- 
ington, to the great joy of the inhabitants, army, 
and nation, immediately marched into the town. 

The rear guard of the British was scarcely out of the town, 
when Washington entered it on the other side, with cclours 
displayed, diiims beating, lind all the forms of victory and tri- 
umph. He was received hy the inhabitants, with demonstra- 
tions of joy and gratitude. Sixteen months had the people suf- 
fered the distresses of hunger* ar.d the outrages of an insolent 
soldiery. 



* Provisions had been so scarce in Boston, that a pound of fresh fish 
cost tweiye pence sterling, a goose eight shilUogs and four pence, a turkey 



PERIOD V....1775....17S3....REVOLUTION. 171 

The town presented a melancholy spectacle, at the time the 
irray of Washington entered. One thousand five hundred loyal- 
ists, witii their families, had just departed on board the British 
flea,, tearing themselves from home and friends, for the love of 
the royal cause. Churches were stripped of pews and benches 
for fuel, shops were opened and rifled of goods to c'othe the 
array, and houses had been pillaged by an unfeeling soldiery. 

Section XXIV. While affairs were proceed- 
ing thus in the north, an attempt was made, in 
June and July, to destroy the fort on Sullivan's 
Island, near Charleston, S. C. by Gen. Clinton 
and Sir Peter Parker. After an action of up- 
wards of ten hours, the British were obhged to 
retire, having their ships nearly torn to pieces, 
and with a loss of two hundred killed and 
wounded. The loss of the Americans was but 
ten killed, and twenty-two wounded. 

The fort was commanded by Col. Moultrie, whose garrison 
consisted of but three hundred and seventy five regulars, and a 
few militia. On the fort was mounted twenty-six cannon of 
eighteen and nine pounders. The British force consisted of two 
fifty gun ships, and four frigates, each of twenty-eight guns, 
besides several smaller vessels, with three thousand troops on 
board. By this repulse of the British, the southern states ob- 
tained a respite from the calamities of war for two years and a 
half. 

Among the American troops who resisted the British, in their 
attack on fort Moultrie, was a sergeant Jasper, whose name has 
been given to one of the counties in Georgia, in commemoration 
</f his gallant deeds, and who dejjcrves an honourable notice in 
every history of his country. In the warmest part of the con- 
test, the flag staff was severed by a cannon ball, and the flag 
fell to the bottom of the ditch, on the outside of the works. This 
accident was considered, by the anxious inhabitants »n Charles- 
ton, as putting an end to the contest, by striking the American 
flag to the enemy. The moment Jasper made the discovery, 
that the flag had fallen, he jumped from one of the embrasures, 



twelve shillings and six pence, a. duck eight shillings and two pence, 
two shillings and one penny per pound. A sheep cost thirty-five shillings 
sterling, apples thirty-three shillings and four pence per bushel. Fire wood 
forty-one shillings and eight pence per cord, and finally was not to be pro- 
cured at any price. 



172 PERIOD V....1775....1T83....REVOLUT10N. 

and took up the flag, which he tied to a post, and replaced it on 
the parapet, where he supported it until another flag staff was 
procured. 

The subsequent activity and enterprise of this patriot induced 
Col. Moultrie to give him a sort of roving commission, to go and 
com^ at pleasure, confident that he was always usefully cn>- 
ployed. He was privileged to select such men from the regi- 
ment as he should choose, to accompany him in his enterprises. 
His parties consisted generally of five or six, and he often re- 
turned with prisoners, before Moultrie was apprised of his ab- 
sence. Jasper was distinguished for his humane treatment 
when an enemy fell into his power. His ambition appears to 
have been limited to the characteristicks of bravery, humanity, 
and usefulness to the cause in which he was engaged. By his 
cunning and enterprise, he often succeeded in the capture ol 
those who were lying in ambush for him. He entered the Bri- 
tish lines, and remained several days in Savannah, in disguise, 
and, after informing himself of their strength and intentions, re- 
turned to the American camp with useful information to his 
commanding officer. 

In one of these excursions, an instance of bravery and hu- 
manity is recorded, by the biographer of General Marion, 
which could not be credited if it was not well attested. While 
h« was examining the British camp at Ebenezer, all the sympa- 
thy of his heart was awakened by the distresses of a Mrs. Jones, 
whose husband, an American by birth, had taken the king's 
protection, and been confined in irons for deserting the royal 
cause, after he had taken the oath of allegiance. Her well 
founded belief was, that nothing short of the life of her husband 
would atone for the offence with which he was charged. An- 
ticipating the awful scene of a beloved husband expiring on the 
gibbet, had excited inexpressible emotions of grief and distrac- 
tion. Jasper secretly consulted with his companion, Serjeant 
Newton, whose feelings for the distressed female and her child 
were equally excited with his own, upon the practicability of 
releasing Jones from his impending fate. Though they were 
unable to suggest a plan of operation, they were determined to 
watch for the most favourable opportunity, and make the effcirt. 

The departure of Jones and several others, all in irons, to 
Savannah, for trial, under a guard, consisting of a serjeant, cor- 
poral, and eight men, was ordered upon the succeeding morn- 
ing. Within two miles of Savannah, about thirty yards from 
the main road, is a spring of fine water, surrounded by a deep 
and thick underwood, where travellers often halt to refresh 
themselves with a cool draught from this pure fountain. Jasper 
and his companion selected this sj^ot as the most favourable for 



PERIOD Y....1775....178S....REVOLUTIOM. i7« 

their enterprise. They accordingly passed the guard, and con- 
cealed themselves near the spring. 

When the enemy came up, they halted, and two of the guard 
only remained with the prisoners, while the others leaned theii 
guns against trees in a careless manner, and went to the spring. 
Jasper and Newton sprung from their place of concealment, 
seized two of the muskets, and shot the sentinels. The posses- 
sion of all the arras placed the enemy in their power, and com- 
pelled them to suiTender. The irons were taken off from the 
prisoners, and arms put into their hands. The whole party ax- 
rived at Perrysburg, the next morning, and joined the American 
camp. There are but few instances upon record where personal 
exertions, even for self-preservation from certain prospects of 
death, would have induced a resort to an act so desperate of 
execution ; how much more laudable was this, where the spring 
to action was roused by the lamentations of a female unknown 
to the adventurers ! 

Subsequently to the gallant defence at Sullivan's Island, CoL 
Moultrie's regiment was presented with a stand of colours by 
Mrs. Elliot, which she had richly embroidered with her own 
hands ; and, as a reward of Jasper's particular merits, Govern- 
our Rutledge presented him with a very handsome sword. Du- 
ring the assault against Savannah, two officers had been killed 
and 'one wounded, endeavouring to plant these colours upon the 
enemy's parapet of the Springhill redoubt. Just before the re- 
treat was ordered, Jasper endeavoured to replace them upon the 
works, and while he was in the act, received a mortal wound 
and fell into the ditch. When a retreat was ordered, he recol- 
lected the honourable condition upon which the donor presented 
the colours to his regiment, and among the last acts of his life, 
succeeded in bringing them off. 

Major Horry called to see him soon after the retreat, to 
whom, it is said, he made the following communication. " I 
have got my furlough. That sword was presented to me by 
Governour Rutledge, for my services in the defence of fort 
Moultrie. Give it to my father, and tell him I have worn it 
with honour. If he should weep, tell him his son died in the 
hope of a better life. Tell Mrs. Elliot that I lost my life, sup- 
porting the colours which she presented to our regiment. If 
you should ever see Jones, his wife and son, tell them that Jas- 
per is gone, but that the rememberance of the battle, which 
he fought for them, brought a secret joy to his heart when it 
was about to stop its motion forever." He expired a few mia- 
tltes after closing this sentence.* 

♦ M*CaU»6 Georgia, Vol. II. 

15* 



174 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

Section XXV. During these transactions in 
the south, the continental congress was in ses- 
sion, intently observing the aspect of things, and 
deeply revolving the probable issue of the pre- 
sent important contest. The idea of independ- 
ence had now been broached among the people, 
and the way was, in a measure, prepared to 
bring the subject before the congress. 

Accordingly, on the 8th of June, Richard 
Henry Lee, one of the deputies from Virginia, 
rose and made a motion to declare America free 
and independent. 

Mr. Lee addressed the house on this motion, and concluded 
a8 follows : " Why then do we longer delay, why still deliber- 
ate ? Let this most happy day give birth to the American re- 
publick. Let her arise, not to devastate and conquer, but to 
re-establish the reign of peace and of the laws. The eyes of 
Europe are fixed upon us ; she demands of us a living example 
of freedom, that may contrast, by the felicity of the citizens, 
with the ever increasing tyranny which desolates her polluted 
shores. She invites us to prepare an asylum, where the unhap- 
py may find solace, and the persecuted repose. She entreats us to 
cultivate a propitious soil, where that generous plant, which 
first sprang up and grew in England, but is now vrithered by 
the poisonous blasts of Scottish tyranny, may revive and flourish, 
sheltering under its salubrious and interminable shade, all the 
unfortunate of the human race. 

This is the end presaged by so many omens, by our first 
victories, by the present ardour and union, by the flight of 
Howe,* and the pestilence wblch broke out amongst Dun- 
moie's p€ople,t by the very winds which bafl3ed the enemy's 
fleets and transports, and that terrible tempest which ingulphed 
seven hundred vessels upon the coast of Newfoundland. If we 
are not this day wanting in our dnty to our country, the names 



♦ Alluding to the evacuation ot Boston by tke Britiih, under Howe, 
page 170. 

t Lord Dunmore, the royal govei-nour of Virginia, retired to the Fowey 
man of war, as noticed page 169, onboard of which, and the other veasela 
of his squadron, a pestilential malady broke out, which carried off great 
Bumtjers of the crowd, both whitp. and black, which had thronged the 
ressels. ": • 



I^ERIOD V....1775....17&3....REVOLUTION. 175 

of the American legislators will be placed, by posterity, at the 
side of those of Theseus, of Lycurgus, of Romulus, of Numa, 
of the three Williams of Nassau, and of all those whose memory 
has been, and will be for ever dear to virtuous men, and good 
citizens." 

The deputies of Pennsylvania and Maryland 
not being present, and congress being desirous, 
by some delay, to evince the maturity of their 
deliberations, adjourned the further considera- 
tion of the subject to the first of July. 

On the arrival of the day assigned, the sub- 
ject w^as resumed, and on the ^th of July, 1776, 
upon the report of Thomas Jefferson, John 
Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, 
and Philip Livingston, the thirteen confederate 
colonies dissolved their allegiance to the British 
crovs^n, and declared themselves Free and hide- 
pendent, under the name of the Thirteen Uni- 
ted States of America, 

After specifically enumerating the wrongs received, and de- 
claring these to be sufficient grounds for a separation, they sol- 
emnly and deliberately proceeded to the act of separation, in 
the words following : 

" We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of 
America, in general congress assembled, appealing to the Su- 
preme Judge of the world, for the rectitude of our intentions, 
and by authority of the good people of these colonies, solemnly 
publish and declare, That these united colonies are, and of 
right ought to be, free and independent states; that they are 
absolved from all allegiance to the British crown, and that all 
political connection between them and the state of Great Britain 
is, and ought to be, totally dissolved ; and that as free and in- 
dependent states, they have full power to levy war, conclude 
peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and to do all 
other acts and things, which independent states may of right do. 
And for the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on 
the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each 
other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honour.'' 

The members who composed this congress, ail of whom 
signed the dedaration) were. 



m 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 



John Hancock, President, from Massachusetts. 



New-Hampshire. 
Jo8iah Bartlett; 
William Whipple, 
Matthew Thornton. 

Massachusetts. 
Samuel Adams, 
John Adams, 
Robert Treat Paine, 
Elbridge Gerry. 

Rhode-Island. 
Stephen Hopkins, 
William EUery. 

Connecticut. 
Roger Sherman, 
Samuel Huntington, 
William Williams, 
Oliver Wolcott. 

New-York. 
William Floyd, 
Philip Livingston, 
Francis Lewis, 
Lewis Morris. 

New-Jersey. 
Richard Stockton, 
John Witherspoon, 
Fratecis Hopkinson, 
John Hart, 
Abraham Clark. 

Pennsylvania. 
Robert Morris, 
Benjamin Rush, 
Benjamin Franklin, 
John Morton, 



James Smith, 
George Taylor, 
James Wilson, 
George Ross. 

Delaware* 
Caesar Rodney, 
George Read. 

Maryland. 
Samuel Chase, 
William Paca, 
Thomas Stone, 
Charles Carroll, of CarroUton. 

Virginia. 
George Wythe, 
Richard Henry Lee, 
Thomas Jefferson, 
Benjamin Harrison, 
Thomas Nelson, Jun. 
Thomas Lightfoot Lee, 
Carter Braxton. 

North Carolina. 
William Hooper, 
Joseph Hewee, 
John Penn. 

Soiith Carolina. 
Edward Rutledge, 
Thomas Hayward, Juu. 
Thomas Lynch, Jun. 
Arthur Middleton. 

Georgia. 
Button Gwinnett, 
Lyman Hall, 
George Walton. 



George Clyraer, 

This declaration was received by the people with transports 
of joy. Public rejoicings took place in various parts of the 
Union. In New- York, the statue of George IH. was taken 
down, and the lead, of which it was composed, was converted 
into musket balls. In Boston, the garrison was drawn up in 
King's street, which from that moment, took the name of State- 
strcety and thirteen salutes, by thirteen detachments, into which 
the troops were formed, were fired ; the bells of the town were 
rung, in token of felicitation, and the evening concluded with 
the tearing in pieces, and burning, the ensigns of royalty—- 
lions, sceptres, and crowns. 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTK)N. 177 

In Virginia, the exultation exceeded description. On learn- 
Tng the measures of Congress, the Virginia convention immedi- 
ately decreed, that the name of the king should be suppressed 
in ail the publick prayers. They ordained that the great seal 
ef the commonwealth should represent Virtue as the tutelary 
genius of the province, robed in drapery of an Amazon, rest- 
ing one hand upon her lance, and holding with the other a 
sword, trampling upon tyranny, under the figure of a prostrate 
man, having near him a crown, fallen from his head, and bear- 
ing in one hand a broken chain, and in the other a scourge. At 
the foot was charactered the word Virginia, and round the effigy 
of virtue was inscribed : — Sic semper tyrannis. The reverse 
represented a group of figures; in the middle stood Liberty, 
with her wand and cap ; on one side was Ceres, with a horn of 
plenty in the right hand, and a sheaf of wheat in the left; upon 
the other appeared Eternity, with the globe and the phoenix. 
At the foot were found these words : — Deus nobis hcec otia fe- 
cit. ^ 

Section XXVI. Soon after the evacuation of 
Boston by the British troops, Washington, be- 
lieving that the possession of New- York would 
be with them a favourite object, determined to 
make it the head quarters of his army, and there- 
by prevent their occupation of it, if such a step 
had been contemplated. Accordingly, he soon . 
removed to that city with the principal part of. 
his troops. 

Section XXYIL On the 10th of June, Gen. 
William Howe, with the army which had evacu- 
ated Boston, arrived from Halifax, off Sandy 
Hook. Here he was soon after joined by his 
brother. Admiral Lord Howe, from England, 
with a reinforcement. Their combined forces 
amounted to twenty -four thousand. On the 2d 
of August, they landed near the Narrows, nine 
miles from the city. 

Section XXV Ul. Previous to the commence- 
ment of hostilities, Admiral and Gen. Howe 
communicated to Washinf't<m, th. t they were 
commissioned to settle all diihculties, between 



178 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

Great Britain and the colonies. But, not ad 
dressing Washington by the title due to his rank, 
he thought proper to decline receiving their com- 
munication. It appeared, however, that the 
power of these commissioners extended little 
farther, than, in the language of their instruc- 
tions, *' to grant pardons to such as deserve 
mercy." 

Section XXIX. The American army, in and 
near New-York, amounted to seventeen thou- 
sand two hundred and twenty-five men, a part 
of whom were encamped near Brooklyn, on 
Long-Island. On the 27th of August, this body 
of the Americans, under command of Brigadier 
Gen. Sullivan, were attacked by the British, un- 
der Sir Henry Clinton, Percy, and Cornwallis, 
and were defeated with the loss of upwards of a 
thousand men, Vvhiie the loss of the British 
amounted to less than four hundred. Gen. Sul- 
livan, and Brigadier Generals Lord Sterling 
and Woodhull, fell into the hands of the British, 
as prisoners. 

In the heat of the engagement, Gen, Washington had crossed 
over to Breoklyn from New-York, and on seeing some of his 
best troops slaughtered, or taken, he uttered, it is said, an ex- 
clamation of anj^uish. But deep as his anguish was, and much 
as he wished to succour his troops, prudence forbad the calling 
in of his forces from New- York, as they would, by no means, 
have sufficed to render liis army equal to that of the English. 

Section XXX. After the repulse at Brooklyn, 
perceiving theocciipatjon of his position on Long- 
Island to be of no probable importance, Wash- 
ington withdrew his troops to New- York, and 
soon after evacuated the city, wpon which, on 
the 12th of October, the British entered it. 

Seldom, if ever, was a retreat conducted with more ability 
and prudence, or under more favour?ble auspices, than that of 
the American troops from Long-Island. The necessary pre 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 179 

parations having been made, on the 29th of August, at eight in 
the evening, the troops began to move in the greatest silence. 
But they were not on board their vessels before eleven. A vio- 
lent northeast wind and the ebb ticje, which rendered the cur- 
rent very rapid, prevented the passage. The time pressed, 
however. Fortunately, the wind suddenly veered to the north- 
west. They immediatel}' made sail, and landed in New-York. 
Providence appeared to have watched over the Americans. 
About two o'clock in the morning, a thick fog, and at this sea- 
son of the year extraordinary, covered all Long-Island, whereas 
the air was perfectly clear on the side of New- York. Notwith- 
standing the entreaties of his officers, Washington remained the 
last upon the shore. It was not till the next morning, when the 
sun was already high, and the fog dispelled, that the English 
perceived the Americans had abandoned their camp, and were 
sheltered from pursuit. 

Washington with a part of his troops, retired 
to White Plains, where he entrenched himself 
with great care. Here, on the morning of the 
28th of September, he was attacked by Gene- 
rals Clinton and Heister. The loss in the ac- 
tion on each side, was several hundred. — But 
neither party could claim any decided advan- 

While Washington was retiring from New- 
York, Sir William Howe seized the opportunity 
to reduce Fort Washington, on the Hudson, 
then under the command of Col. Magaw. 

Nov. l6th, the English forces invested the fort, and after a 
severe contest, which continued nearly all day, Col Magaw, 
finding his ammunition mostly exhausted, surrendered tVie fort, 
and with it about two thousand seven hundred men as prisoners 
of war. The surrender of Fort Washington was followed short- 
ly after, by the surrender of Fort Lee, on the Jersey shore, the 
garrison abandoning it on the approach of the enemy. 

Section XXXI. Washinffton, having crossed 
the North River, continued his retreat to New- 
ark, Brunswick, Princeton, and Trenton ; and 
thence crossed to the Pennsylvania side of the 
Delaware ; Lord Corn wal lis being close in his 
rear. This retreat through New- Jersey was at- 



180 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

tended by circumstances of deep depression. 
The Americans had just lost two thousand seven 
hundred men in Fort Washington ; numbers of 
the militia were daily claiming to be discharged, 
and some of the leading characters, both in New- 
Jersey and Pennsylvania, were changing sides, 
and making peace with the enemy. 

In this season of general despondency, congress recommend- 
ed to each of the States, the observance of a " day of solemn 
fasting and humiliation before God." At the same time they 
called upon the States to furnish militia to reinforce the continent- 
al army, now so enfeebled as scarcely to amount to three thou- 
sand men. Soon after^ one thousand five hundred Pennsylva- 
nian militia joined the American standard. 

Section XXXII. Notwithstanding the general 
aspect of affairs, on the part of America, was 
thus forbidding, the continental congress, so far 
from betraying symptoms of despair, manifested 
more confidence than ever ; and, as if success 
must eventually crown their enterprises, calmly 
occupied themselves in drawing up various ar- 
ticles of confederation^ and perpetual union be- 
tween the States. 

Such articles were obviously necessary, that 
the line of distinction between the powers of the 
respective States, and of congress, should be 
exactly deiined. In this way, only, would col- 
lisions be avoided, and the peace and harmony 
of the union be preserved. 

Accordmgly, such articles were now digested, 
and at the sitting of congress, Oct. 4th, 1776, 
were signed by all the members, and copies im- 
mediately sent to the respective assemblies of 
each State for approbation. The principal ar- 
ticles of confederation were the following 

" Thpy all and each obligate themselves to contribute for the 
common defence, a«d for the maintenance of their liberties. 
'' Each particular state preserved the exclusive right of regu 



PERIOD V....1775....1783,...REVOLUTIOrr. igl 

iating its internal goveninient, and of framing laws in all mat- 
ters, not included in the articles of conlederation, and which 
would not be prejudicial to it. 

" No particular State was either to send, or to receive ambas- 
sadors, enter into negotiations, contract engagements, form al- 
liances, or make war, except in the case of sudden attack, with 
any king, prince or power, whatsoever, without the consent of 
the United States. 

" No individual, holding any magistracy, office, or commis- 
sion, whatsoever, from the United States, or from any of them, 
was allowed to accept of any presents, or any office, or title oj 
any kind whatsoever, from any foreign king, prince, or poten 
tate. 

*^ No assembly was to confer titles of nobility. 

"' No State was to make alliances or treaties of what kind so- 
ever, with another, without the consent of all. 

" Each particular State had authority to maintain, in peace 
'IS well as war, the number of armed ships and of land troops, 
judged necessary, by the general assembly of all the States, and 
no more. 

'' There shall be a publlck treasury for the service of the con- 
federation, to be replenished by the particular contributions of 
each State ; the same to be proportioned according to the num- 
ber of inhabitants, of every age, sex, or condition, with the ex- 
ception of Indians. 

" A general congress was to be convoked every year, on the 
first Monday of November, to be composed of deputies from al. 
the States ; it was invested with all the powers that belonged tc 
the sovereigns of other nations.'' These powers were exactly 
enumerated. 

" Every individual holding any office, and either wages, 
salary, or emolument whatsoever, was thereby excluded from 
congress. 

" There was to be a council of state composed of one deputy 
from each province, nominated annually by his colleagues, of 
the same State, and in case these should not agree, by me gene- 
ral congress." Each State was to have but one vote. 

" During the session, as well as the recess of the general con- 
gress, the council of state was to be charged with the manage- 
ment of the publick affairs of the confederation, always restrict- 
ing itself, however, within the limits prescribed by the laws, and 
particular!}^ by the articles of the confederation itself." 

Section XXXI II. December 25th, at night, 
Washington recrossed the Delaware into New- 
Jersey, and, pushing liis way rapidly to TreDton, 

16 



IS2 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

surprised and took prisoners, on the following 
day, about one thousand Hessians, then in the 
service of the British. Having secured these 
prisoners on the Pennsylvania side of the Dela- 
ware, he marched to Princeton, and attacked a 
party of British, who had taken refuge in the 
college. About sixty of the enemy were killed, 
Und three hundred made prisoners. 

The successes at Trenton and Princeton re- 
v^ived the desponding friends of independence. 
During the month of December, a melancholy 
gloom had overspread the United States. These 
successes, however, seemed to brighten the pros- 
pect, and promise better things. Washington 
now retired to Morristown, where his army were 
nearly all inoculated with the small pox, that 
disease having appeared among the troops, and 
rendering such a measure necessary. The dis- 
ease proved mortal but in few instances, nor was 
there a day in which the soldiers could not, if 
called upon, have fought the enemy. 

Section XXXIV. On the opening of the cam- 
paign of 1 777, the army of Washington, although 
congress had offered to recruits bounties in land, 
and greater wages, amounted to little more than 
seven thousand men. Towards the latter end 
of May, Washington quitted his winter encamp- 
ment at Morristown, and, about the same time, 
the royal army moved from Brunswick, which 
they had occupied during the vvdnter. Much 
shifting of the armies followed, but no definite 
plan of operation had apparently been settled 
by either. 

Previous to this, liowever, General Howe sent a detachment 
of two thousand men, under command of Gen. Tryon, Gen. 
Agnew, and Sir William Erskine, to destroy some stores and 
nrovisions deposited at Danbury, in Connecticut. Meeting 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 18S 

with no resistance they reached Danbury on the 26th of April, 
and destroyed one thousand eight hundred barrels of beef and 
pork, and eight hundred of flour, two thousand bushels of grain, 
clothing for a regiment, one hundred hogsheads of rum, and one 
thousand seven hundred and ninety tents. Besides the destruc- 
tion of these articles, the enemy wantonly burned eighteen hous- 
es with their furniture, murdered three unoffending inhabitants, 
and threw them into the flames. 

Generals Sullivan, Wooster, and Arnold happening to be in 
the neighbourhood, hastily collected about six hundred militia, 
with whom they marched in pursuit, in a heavy rain, as far as 
Bethel, about two miles from Danbury. On the morning of the 
27th of April, the troops were divided, Gen. Wooster with 
about three hundred men, falling in the rear of the enemy, whil 
Arnold took post in front, at Ridgefield. 

Gen. Wooster proceeded to attack the enemy, in which en- 
gagement he was mortally wounded, and from which his troops 
were compelled to retire. At Ridgefield, Arnold warn^y re- 
ceived the enemy on their retreat, and although repulsed, return- 
ed to the attack the next day on their march to the Sound. Find- 
ing themselves continually annoyed by the resolute and courage- 
ous yeomanry of the country through which they passed, they 
hastened to embark on board their ships, in which they sailed 
for New- York. Their killed, wounded, and missing, amounted 
to about one hundred and seventy ; the loss of the Americans 
was not admitted to exceed one hundred. Gen. Wooster, now 
in his seventieth year, lingered with his wounds until the 2d of 
May. Congress resolved that a monument should be erected to 
his memory. To Gen. Arnold they presented a horse, properly 
caparisoned, as a reward for his gallantry on the occasion. 

At length, the British General Howe, leaving 
New-Jersey, embarked at Sandy Hook, with 
sixteen thousand men, and sailed for the Chesa- 
peake. On the 14th of August, he landed his 
troops, at the head of Elk river, in Maryland. 

It being now obvious that his design was the 
occupation of Philadelphia, Washington imme 
diately put the American army in motion, to 
wards that place, to prevent, if possible, its fall 
ing into the hands of the enemy. 

The two armies met at Brandywine, Dela- 
ware, on the 11th of September, and after an 



184 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

engagement, which continued nearly all day, 
the Americans were compelled to retire. 

The loss of the Americans in this action was estimated at 
three hundred killed, and six hundred wounded. Between 
three and four hundred, principally the wounded, were made 
prisoners. The loss of the British was stated at less than one 
hundred killed, and four hundred wounded. 

Not considering the battle of Brandywine as deci«ive, con- 
gress, which was sitting in Philadelphia, recommended to the 
commander in chief to risk another engagement ; preparations 
for which were accordingly made. Sept. l6th, the two armies 
drew near to each other, and the advance guards began to 
skirmish, when they were separated by a heavy rain, which 
rendered the musketry and ammunition of the armies wholly 
unfit for action. 

Section XXXV. An easy access to Philadel- 
phia was now presented to the enemy, and on 
the 26th, Howe entered the place without mo- 
lestation. The principal part of the British 
army was stationed at Germantown, six miles 
from Philadelphia. Congress adjourned to 
Lancaster, and Washington encamped at eigh- 
teen miles distance from Germantown. 

Section XXXVI. Immediately after the oc- 
cupation of Philadelphia, the attention of Gen. 
Howe was drawn to the reduction of some forts 
on the Delaware, which rendered the naviga- 
tion of that river unsafe to the British. — Ac- 
cordingly, a part of the royal army was detach- 
ed for that purpose. Washington seized the 
opportunity to attack the remainder at German- 
town. 

This attack was made Oct. 4th, but, after a 
severe action, the Americans were repulsed with 
a loss of double that of the British. The loss 
of the Americans was two hundred killed, six 
hundred wounded, and four hundred prisoners ; 
that of the British was about one hundred kill- 
ed, and five hundred wounded. 



PERIOD V....I775....178ci -..REVOLUTION. 185 

After this action, the British removed to 
Philadelphia, where they continued long inac- 
tive. Washington retreated to Skippack creek, 
and there encamped. 

Great was the chagrin of Washington, on account of the re- 
pulse at Germantown, which was much increased by the auspi- 
cious commencement of the battle, and the flattering piospect 
of a speedy and complete victory. The ultimate failure of the 
Americans was attributed *o the inexperience of a part of the 
troops, and to embarrassments arising from a fog which increas- 
ed the darkness of the night. Congress, however, expressed 
their approbation of Washington's plan of attack, and highly 
applauded the courage and firmness of the troops. 

Section XXXVII. While such was the pro- 
gress of military operations in the middle States, 
important events were taking place in the north. 

It has already been noticed, that in May, 
1775, Ticonderoga and Crown Point had been 
taken by surprise, by Colonels Allen and Ar- 
nold ; that in the ensuing fall, Gen. Montgom- 
ery had reduced the fort of St. John's, captured 
Montreal, and made an ineffectual, though des- 
perate assault upon Quebec. 

On the return of spring, the American arrny 
gradually retired up the St. Lawrence, and af 
ter a loss of one post and another, in June, 1776, 
entirely evacuated Canada. 

In the spring of 1777, it was settled in Eng 
land that an invasion of the States should be at- 
tempted from the north, and a communication 
formed between Canada and New- York. Could 
such a plan have been executed, it would obvi- 
ously have precluded intercourse between New- 
England and the more southern States. 

The execution of the plan was committed to 
Gen. Burgoyne, who left Canada with seven 

16* 



186 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

thousand troops, besides a powerful train of ar- 
tillery, and several tribes of Indians.* 

Section XXXVIIL On the 1st of July, Bur- 
goyne landed and invested Ticonderoga. The 
American garrison here amounted to three thou- 
sand men, under command of Gen. St. Clair, an 
officer of high standing. 

Deeming this force inadequate to maintain 
the post, especially as Burgoyne had taken pos- 
session of Mount Defiance, which commanded 
Ticonderoga, and not having provisions to sus- 
tain the army for more than twenty days, St. 
Clair perceived no safety for the garrison but in 
a precipitate flight. Accordingly, on the night 
of the 5th, Ticonderoga was abandoned. By a 
circuitous march, St. Clair continued to retreat, 
first into Vermont, although closely pursued, 
and thence to Hudson river, where, after having 
lost one hundred and twenty pieces of artillery, 
with a great quantify of military stores, he joined 
Gen. Schuyler, commanding the main army of 
the north. After this junction, the whole army 
continued to retire to Saratoga and Stillwater, 
and at length took post on Van Shaick's Island, 
in the mouth of the Mohawk, on the 18th of Au- 
gust. 

After the taking of Ticonderoga, Gen. Bur- 
goyne, with the great body of his troops, pro- 
ceeded up the lake, and destroyed the American 
flotilla and a considerable quantity of baggage 
and stores, which had been deposited at Skeens- 
borough. Having halted at this place for nearly 



* The number of Indian warriours, employed by the British in the reTO^- 
lutionary war, has been estimated at about twelve thousand. See Masg. 
His. Col. Tol. 10. p. 123, where the several tribes are specified, with the nura^ 
ii«r of warriours each tribe furnished. 



fERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 187 

three weeks, he proceeded to Fort Edward, on 
the Hudson, where he did not arrive until July 
30th, his way having been obstructed by Schuy- 
ler's army, which felled a great number of trees 
across the road, and demolished the bridges, 
while on their retreat. 

Section XXXIX. While Gen. Burgoyne lay 
at Fort Edward, a detachment of his army of 
five hundred English and one hundred Indians, 
under Col. Baum, who had been sent to seize a 
magazine of stores at Bennington, in Vermont, 
was totally defeated, and Col. Baum slain, by a 
party of Vermont troops called Green Mountain 
Boys, and some New-Hampshire militia, under 
command of Gen. Stark. 

Bauaij on his arrival near Bennington, learning that the 
Americans were strongly entrenched at that place, halted, and 
despatched a messenger to Gen. Burgoyne, for a reinforcement. 

Gen. Stark, now on his march with a body of New-Hamp- 
shire militia, to join Gen. Schuyler, receiving intelligence of 
Baum's approach, ahered his movement, and collected his force 
at Bennington. 

Before the expected reinforcement could arrive. Gen. Stark, 
having added to his New-Hampshire corps a body of Vermont 
militia, determined to attack Baum in his entrenchments. Ac- 
cordingly, on the l6ih of August, an attack was made, which re- 
sulted in the flight of Baum's detachment at the moment in which 
the reinforcement of troops, despatched by Gen. Burgoyne, arriv- 
ed. With the assistance of these, the battle was now renewed, but 
ended in the discomfiture of the British forces, and with a loss, 
on their part, of about seven hundred in killed and wounded. 
The loss of the Americans was about one hundred. 

Section XL. The battle at Bennington great- 
ly revived the courage of the Americans, and as 
grqatly disappointed the hopes of Gen. Burgoyne, 
and served materially to embarrass and retard 
his movements. 

The situation of Gen. Burgoyne, at this time, 
was seriously perplexing, being greatly in want 
of provisions, and the course of wisdom and pru- 



188 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

dence being not a little difficult to determine 
To retreat was to abandon the object of his ex 
pedition ; to advance seemed replete with diffi- 
culty and danger. I'his latter step, however, 
at length appeared the most judicious. 

Accordingly, on the 13th and 14th of Sep- 
tember, he passed the Hudson, and advanced 
upon Saratoga and Stillwater. On the 17th, 
his army came nearly in contact with that of the 
American, now commanded by Gen. Gates, who 
had succeeded Schuyler, August 21 ; some s^kir- 
mishing ensued, without bringing on a general 
battle. 

Two days after, the two armies met, and a 
most obstinate, though indecisive engagement 
ensued, in which the Americans lost, in killed 
and wounded, between three and four hundred, 
and the British about six hundred. 

On the 7th of October, the battle was renew- 
ed, by a movement of Gen. Burgoyne towards 
the left of the Americans, by which he hoped to 
effect his retreat to the lakes. The battle was 
extremely severe ; and darkness only put an end 
to the effusion of bl6od. 

During the night which succeeded, an attempt 
was made by the royal army to retreat to Fort 
Edward. — While preparing to march, intelli- 
gence was received that this fort was already in 
possession of the Americans. No avenue to 
escape now appeared open. Worn down with 
constant toil and watching, and having ascer- 
tained that he had but three days' provisions, a 
council of war was called, which unanimously 
resolved to capitulate to Gen. Gates. Prelimi- 
naries were soon after settled, and the army, 
consisting of five thousand seven hundred effei'A' 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 189 

ive men, surrendered prisoners of war on the 
1 7th of October. 

Gen. Gates, immediately after the victory, de- 
spatched Col. Wilkinson, to carry the happy 
tidings to Congress. On being introduced into 
the hall of congress, he said, " The whole Bri- 
tish army has laid down arms at Saratoga : our 
sons, full of vigour and courage, expect your or- 
ders : it is for your wisdom to decide where the 
country may still have need of their services." 

Among the roraantick incidents of real life, few surpass the 
adventures of the Baroness de Reidesel and Lady Harriet Ack- 
land, two ladies who had followed the fortunes of their hus- 
bands, the Baron de Reidesel and Major Ackland, officers in 
the army of Gen. Burgoyne, the latter of whom was wounded 
in the battle of the 9th of October. 

On the 7th of October, says the Baroness de Reidesel, oui 
misfortunes began. I was at breakfast with my husband, and 
heard that something was intended. On the same day I ex- 
pected Generals Burgoyne, Phillips, and Fraser, to dine with us. 
I saw a great movement among the troops ; my husband told 
me it was merely a reconnoissance, which gave me no concern, 
as it often happened. I walked out of the house, and met 
several Indians in their war dresses, with guns in their hands. 
When I asked where they were going, they cried out, War ! 
War! meaning that they were going to battle. This filled me 
with apprehension ; and I had scarcely got home, before 1 
heard the reports of cannon and musketry, which grew louder 
by degrees, till at last the noise became excessive. 

About four o'clock in the afternoon, instead of the guests 
whom I expected. Gen. Fraser was brought on a litter, 
mortally wounded. The table, which was already set, was 
removed, and a bed placed, in its stead, for the wounded gene- 
ral. I sat trembling in a corner; the noise grew louder, and 
the alarm increased ; the thought that my husband might be 
brought in wounded, in the same manner, was terrible to me, 
and distressed me exceedingly. General Fraser said to the 
surgeon, ^^ Tell me [f my loound is mortal, do not fiatter meP 
The ball had passed through his body, and, unhappily for the 
general, he had oaten a very hearty breakfast, by which the 
stomach was distended, and the ball, as the surgeon said, had 
passed through it. 

I heard bim often exclaim, with a sigh, " Oh fatal ambs- 



190 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

TiON ! Poor General Burgoyne ! Oh my poor wipe !" He 
was asked if he had any request to make, to which he replied : 
" If General Burgoyne would permit it, he should likk 
to be buried at 6 o^clock in the evening, on the top op 

A MOUNTAIN, IN A REDOUBT, WHICH HAD BEEN BUILT THERK/* 

I did not know which way to turn ; all the other rooms were 
full of sick. Towards evening, I saw my husband coming ; 
then I forgot all my sorrows, and thanked God that he was 
spared to me. He and his aid-de-camp ate, in great haste, 
with me, behind the house. We had been told, that we had 
the advantage of the enemy ; but the sorrowful faces I beheld 
told a different tale ; and, before my husband went away, he 
took me one side, and said every thing was going very bad ; 
that I must keep myself in readiness to leave the place, but not 
to mention it to any one. I made the pretence that I would 
move, the next morning, into my new house, and had every 
thing packed up ready. 

Lady H. Ackland had a tent, not far from our house, -n 
which she slept, and the rest of the day she was in the camp. 
All of a sudden, a man came to tell her, that her husband wai 
mortally wounded, and taken prisoner; on hearing this, sh«5 
became very miserable ; we comforted her, by telling her, that 
the wound was only slight, and, at the same time, advised her 
to go over to her husband, to do which she would certainly ob 
tain permission, and then she could attend him herself. She 
was a charming woman, and very fond of him. I s-pent much 
of the night in comforting her, and then went again to my chil- 
dren, whom I had put to bed. I could not go to sleep, as I had 
General Fraser, aild all the other wounded gentlemen, in my 
room ; and I was sadly afraid my children would awake, and 
by their crying, disturb the dying man, in his last moments, 
who often addressed mcj and apologized ^^for the trouble he 
gave me." 

About three o'clock in the morning,! was told that he could not 
hold out much longer ; I had desired to be informed of the near 
approach of this sad crisis, and I then wrapped up my children 
in their clothes, and went with them into the room below. — 
About eight o'clock in the morning, he died. After he was 
laid out, and his corpse wrapped up in a sheet, we came again 
into the room, and had this sorrowful sight before us, the whole 
day ; and, lo add to the melancholy scene, almost every mo- 
ment, some officer of my acquaintance was brought in wound- 
ed, Tlie cai.nonade commenced as^ain ; a retreat was spoken 
of, but not the smallest motion wa? made towards it. About 
four o'clock in thf= p/tpdiooh, J saw the house, which had just 
been built for me, m fiames, and the enemy was not far off. We 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION, I9I 

knew that General Burgcyne would not refuse the last request 
of General Fraser, though, by his acceding to it, an unneces- 
sary delay was occasioned, by which the incon v enience of the 
army was increased. 

At six o'clock, the corpse was brought out, and we saw all 
he generals attend it to the mountain ; the chaplain, Mr. Brude- 
lell, performed the funeral service, rendered unusually solemn 
and awful, from its being accompanied by constant peals from 
the enemy's artillery. Many cannon balls flew close by me, 
but I had my eyes directed towards the mountain, where my 
husband was standing, amidst the fire of the enemy, and, of 
course, I could not think of my own danger. 

General Gates afterwards said, that if he had known it had 
been a funeral, he would not have permitted it to be fired on. 

As soon as the funeral service was finished, and the grave of 
Gen. Fraser was closed, an order was issued that the army 
should retreat. My calash was prepared, but I would not con- 
sent to go before the troops. Major Harnange, although suf- 
fering from his wounds, crept from his bed, as he did not wish 
to remain in the hospital, which was left with a flag of truce. 
When Gen. Reidesel saw me in the midst of danger, he ordered 
my women and children to be brought into the calash, and in- 
timated to me to depart, whhout delay. I still prayed to re- 
main; but my husband, knowing my weak side, said, "well 
then, your children must go, that, at least, they may be sale 
from danger." I then agreed to enter the calash with them, 
and we set off" at eight o'clock. The retreat was ordered to be 
conducted with the greatest silence. Many fires were lighted, 
and several tents left standing. We travelled continually du- 
ring the night. 

At six o'clock in the morning, we halted, which excited the 
surprise of all. General Burgoyne had the cannon ranged and 
prepared for battle. This delay seemed to displease every 
body ; for, if we could only have made another good march, we 
should have been in safety. My husband, quite exhausted with 
fati^me, came into my calash, and slept for three hours. Du- 
ring that time, Capt. Wilde brought me a bag full of bank 
notes, and Capt. Geisman his elegant watch, a ring, and a 
purse full of money, which they requested me to take care of, 
and which I promised to do to the utmost of my power. We 
again marched, but had scarcely proceeded an hour before we 
halted, as the enemy was in sight. It proved to be only a 
reconnoltt:ring party of two hundred men, who might easily 
have been made prisoners, if Gen Burgoyne had given proper 
orders on the occasion. 

About evening we arrived at Saratoga; my dress was wet 



192 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

through and through with rain, and, in that state, I had to re* 
main the whole night, having no place to change it ; I however 
got close to a large fire, and at last lay down on some straw. 
At this moment, General Phillips came up to me, and I asked 
him why we had not continued our retreat, as my husband had 
promised to cover it, and bring the army through ? " Poor 
dear woman," said he, " I wonder how, drenched as you are, 
you have still the courage to persevere, and venture further in 
this kind of weather. I wish," continued he, " you was our 
commanding general. General Burgoyne is tired, and means 
to halt here to-night, and give us our supper/*' 

On the morning of the 9th, at ten o'clock, General Eurgoyne 
ordered the retreat to be continued, and caused the handsome 
houses and mills of General Schuyler to be burnt; we marched 
however but a short distance, and then halted. The greatest 
misery at this time prevailed in the army, and more than thirty 
(Officers came to me, for whom tea and coffee were prepared, 
and with whom I shared all ray provisions, with which my 
calash was in general well supplied ; for I had a cook who was 
an excellent caterer, aijd who often, in the night, crossed small 
rivers, and foraged on the inhabitants, bringing in with him 
sheep^iSmall pigs, and poultry, for which he often forgot to pay, 
though he received good pay from me, as long as I had any, 
and he was, ultimately, handsomely rewarded. Our provisions 
v/ow failed us, for want of proper conduct in the commissary's 
department, and I began to despair. 

About two o'clock in the afternoon, we again heard a firing 
of cannon and small arms ; instantly all was in alarm, and 
every thing in motion. My husband told me to go to a house 
not far oft". I immediately seated myself in my calash, with 
my chil'Iren, and drove off'; but, scarcely had we reached it, 
before I discovered five or six armed men, on the other side of 
the Hudson. Instinctively 1 threw my children down in the 
calashj and concealed myself with ihera. At that moment the 
fellows fired, and wounded an already wounded English soldier^ 
who was behind me. Poor fellow ! I pitied him exceedingly, 
but, at that moment, had no power or means to relieve him. A 
terrible cannonade was commenced by the enemy, which was 
directed against the house in which I souerht to obtain shelter 
for myself and children, under the mistaken idea that all the 
generals were in it. Alas ! it contained none but wounded and 
women ; v/e were at last (obliged to resort to the cellar for re- 
fuge, and, in one corner of this, I remained the whole day, my 
children sleeping on the 'earth, with their heads in my lap; and 
in the same situation T passed a sleepless night. Eleven cannon 
balls passed throiigh the house, and we could distmctly hear 



MKIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTIOJN. lyS 

thcDi roll away. One poor soldier, who was lying on a table, 
for the purpose of having his leg amputated, was struck by a 
shot, which carried away his other leg. His comrades had left 
him, and, when we went to his assistance, we found him in a 
corner of the room, into which he had crept, more dead than 
alive, scarcely breathing. My reflections on the danger to 
which my husband was exposed now agonized me exceedingly, 
and the thoughts of my children, and the necessity of struggling 
for their preservation alone sustained me. 

I now occupied myself through the day in attending to the 
wounded ; I made them tea and coffee, and often shared m;y 
dinner with them, for which they offered me a thousand expres- 
sions of gratitude. One day a Canadian officer came to our 
cellar, who had hardly the power of holding himself upright, 
and we concluded he was dying for want of nourishment. I 
was happy in offering him my dinner, which strengthened him, 
and procured me his friendship. I now undertook the care of 
Major Bloomfield, another aid-de-camp of Gen. Phillips, who 
had received a musket ball through both cheeks, which in its 
course, had knocked out several of his teeth, and cut his tongue. 
He could hold nothing in his mouth; the matter which ran 
from his wound almost choked him, and he was not able to 
take any nourishment, except a little soup or something liquid. 
We had some Rhenish wine-^ and, in the hope that the acidity 
of it would cleanse the wound, I gave him a bottle of it ; he 
took a little now and then, and with such effect, that his cure 
soon followed ; and thus I added another to my stock of friends, 
and derived a satisfaction, which, in the midst of sufferings, 
served to tranquillize me, and diminish their acuteness. 

One day. General Phillips accompanied my husband, at the 
risk of their lives, on a visit to us, who, after having witnessed 
our situation, said to him, ^* I would not, for ten thousand 
guineas, come again to this place, mj' heart is almost broken." 

In this horrid situation we remained six days. A cessation 
of hostilities was now spoken of, and eventually took place ; a 
convention was afterwards agreed upon ; but one day a message 
was sent to my husband, who had visited me, and was reposing 
in my bed, to attend a council of war, where it was proposed to 
break the convention, but, to ray great joy, the majority were 
for adhering to it. On the l6th, however, my husband had to 
repair to his post, and I to my cellar. This day fresh beef was 
served out to the officers, who, until nov/, had only had salt 
provisions, which was very bad for their wounds. 

On the 17th of October, the convention was completed. 
General Burgoyne and the other generals waited on General 
Gates, the American commander. The troops laid down their 

17 



jy4 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION, 

arms, and gave themselves up prisoners of war, and now, the 
good woman, who had supplied us with water, at the hazard of 
her life, received the reward of her services ; each of us threw 
a handful of money into her apron, and she got altogether about 
twenty guineas. At such a moment as this, how susceptible is 
the heart of feelings of gratitude ! 

My husband sent a message to me, to come over to him with 
my children. I seated myself, once more, in my dear calash, 
and then rode through the American camp. As I passed on, I 
observed (and this was a great consolation to me) that no one 
eyed me with looks of resentment, but that they all greeted us, 
and even showed compassion in their countenances, at the sight 
of a woman with small children. I was, I confess, afraid to go 
over to the enemy, as it was quite a new situation to me. When 
I drew near the tents, a handsome man approached and met 
me, took my children from the calash, and hugged and kissed 
ihtm, which affected me almost to tears, " You tremble," 
said he, addressing himself to me, '■^ be not afraid.^' " No," I 
jHiswered, " you seem so kind and tender to my children, it in- 
j pires me with courage.'' He nc?w led me to the tent of Gen. 
Gates, where I found Generals Burgoyne and Phillips, who 
were on a friendly footing with the former. Burgoyne said to 
ijie, " Never mind, your sorrows have now an end." I an- 
swered him that I should be reprehensible to have any cares, as 
lie had none, and I was pleased to see him on such a friendly 
;"ooting with General Gates. All the generals remained to dine 
with General Gates. 

The same gentleman, who received me so kindly, now came 
and said to me, " You will be very much embarrassed to eat 
with all these gentlemen ; Come with your children to my tent; 
tliere I will prepare for you a frugal dinner, and give it with 
a free willP I said, ^^ You are certainly a husband and 
\ FATHER, you httvc slwivH me so much kindness. I now 
found that he was General Schuyler. He treated me with 
•excellent smoked tongue, beef steaks, potatoes, and good bread 
and butter. Never could I have wished to eat a better dinner. 
T was content. I saw all around me were so likewise ; and, 
what was better than all, my husband was out of danger. 

When we had dined, he told me his residence was at Albany, 
and that General Burgoyne intended to honour him as his guest, 
and invited myself and children to do likewise. I asked my 
husband how I should act ; he told me to accept the in\'itation. 
As it was two days' journey there, he advised me to go to a 
place, which was about three hours' ride distant. Gen. Schuy- 
ler had the politeness to send with me a French officer, a very 
agreeable man, who commanded the reconnoitering party of 



PERIOD V....1775....l783...;REVOLUTION. 195 

which I have before spoken ; and when he had escorted me to 
the house, where I was to remain, he turned back again. In 
the house I found a French surgeon, who had under his care a 
Brunswick officer, who was mortally wounded, and died some 
days afterwards. 

The Frenchman boasted much of the care he took of his pa- 
tient, and perhaps was skilful enough as a surgeon, but other- 
wise was a mere simpleton. He was rejoiced when he found I 
could speak his language, and he began to address many empty 
and impertinent speeches to me ; he said, among other things, 
he could not believe that I was a general's wife, as he was cer- 
tain a woman of such rank would not follow her husband. He 
wished me to remain with him, as he said it . was better to be 
with the conquerers than the conquered. I was shocked at his 
impudence, but dared not show the contempt I felt for him, be- 
cause it would deprive me of a place of safety. Towards eve- 
ning he begged me to take a part of his chamber. I told him 
I was determined to remain in the room with the wounded offi- 
cers ; whereupon he attempted to pay me some stupid compli- 
ments. At this moment the door opened, and my husband with 
his aid-de-camp entered. I then said, ^' Here, Sir, is my hus- 
band ;" and at the same time eyed him with scorn, whereupon 
he retired abashed, nevertl*jelesis, he was so polite as to offer hi* 
chamber to us. 

Some days after this we arrived at Albany, where we so often 
wished ourselves, but we did not enter it as we expected we 
should, victors ! We were received hy the good General 
Schuyler, his wife, and daughtersy not as enemies- bat kind 
friends; and they treated us with th<^ n < *>t marked attention 
and politeness, as they did General Burgoyne, wi)o haa caused 
General Schuyler^s beautifully finished house to be burnt. In 
fact, they behaved like persons of exalted minds, who deter- 
mined to bury all recollection of their oivn injuries, in the con- 
templation of our misfortunes. General Burgoyne was struck 
with General Schuyler's generosity, and said to him, " You 
show me great kindness, although I have done you much in- 
jury J^ " That was the fate of war ,^^ replied the brave man, 
" let us say no more about it^* 

The fortunes of Lady Harriet Ackland were not leis interest- 
ing than those of the Baroness de Reidesel, just recited. This 
lady, says General Burgoyne in his " State of the Expedition 
from Canada," had accompanied her husband to Canada, iu 



Wilkin8on*s Memoirs, from the Memoirs of the Baroness de ReideseK 



196 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

tlie beginning of the year 1776. In the course of that cairi 
paign, she traversed a vast space of country, in different ex- 
tremities of the season, and with difficulties, of which an Euro- 
pean traveller cannot easily conceive. 

In the opening of the campaign, in 1777, she was restrained 
from offering herself to a share of the fatigue and hazard ex- 
pected before Ticonderoga, by the positive injunctions of her 
husband. The day after the conquest of the place he was bad- 
ly wounded, and she crossed Lake Champlain to join him. 

As soon as he recovered, Lady Harriet proceeded to follow 
nis fortunes through the campaign ; and at Fort Edward, or at 
the next camp, she acquired a two wheel tumbril, which had 
been constructed by the artificers of the artillery, something 
similar to the carriage used for the mail, upon the great roads 
in England. Major Ackland commanded the British grenadiers, 
which were attached to Gen. Eraser's corps ; and consequently 
were always the most advanced part of the army. They were 
often so much on the alert, that no person slept out of his clothes. 
One of their temporary encampments, a tent in which the ma- 
jor and Lady Harriet were asleep, suddenly took fire. An or- 
derly sergeant of grenadiers, with great hazard of suffocation, 
dragged out the first person he caught hold of. It proved to be 
the major. It happened that, in th^same instant, she had, un- 
knowing what she did, and perhaps not perfectly awaked, pro- 
videntially made her escape, by creeping under the walls of the 
ient The first object she sa\V, upon the recover} of her sens- 
es, was the major on the other side, and in the same instant, 
again in the fire in search of her. The serjeant again saved 
him, but not without the major's being very severely burnt in 
the fiice, and different parts of his body. Every thing they had 
with them in the tent was consumed. 

This accident happened a little time before the army crossed 
•.he Hudson, 13th Sept. It neither altered the resolution or 
cheerfulness of Lady Harriet ; and she continued her progress, 
a partaker of the fatigues of the advanced corps. The next call 
upon her fortitude was of a different nature, and more distress- 
ing, as of longer suspense. On the morning of the 19th of Sept. 
the grenadiers being liable to action at every step, she had b(en 
directed by the major to follow the route of the artillery and 
baggage, which were not exposed. At the time the action be- 
gan, she found herself near an uninhabited hut, where she alight- 
ed. When it was found the action was becoming general, the 
surgeon of the hospital took possession of the same place, as 
the most convenient for the first care of the wounded. Thus 
was this lady in the hearing of one continued fire of cannon and 
musketry for four hours to^tether.* with the presumption^ from 



PERIOD V....i775....l783....REVOLUTION. 197 

the post of her husband, at the head of the grenadiers, that he 
was in the most exposed part of the action. She had three fe- 
male companions, the Baroness of Reidesel, and tlie wives of 
two British officers, Major Manage and Lieutenant Reynell ; 
but, in the event, their presence served but httle for com'brt. 
Major Manage was soon bronglit to the surgeon very badly- 
wounded ; and a httle time after, came intelligence that Lieut. 
Reynell was shot dead. Imagination will want no help to 
figure the state of the whole group. 

From the date of that actioi^ to the 7th of October, Lady 
Marriet, with her usual serenity, stood prepared for new trials j 
and it was her lot that their severity increased with their num- 
ber. She was again exposed to the iiearing of the whole action, 
and, at lastj received the word of her individual misfortune, 
mixed with the intelligence of the general calamity ; the troops 
were defeated, and Major Ackland, desperately wounded, was 
a prisoner. 

The day of the 8th was passed by Lady Harriet and her 
companions in uncommon anxiety ; not a tent nor a shed being 
standing, except what belonged to the hospital, their refuge was 
among the wounded and the dying. 

" When the army was upon the point of moving, I received 
a message from Lady Harriet, submitting to my decision a propo- 
sal, and expressing an earnest solicitude to execute it, if not in- 
terfering with my design, of pas^ng to the camp of the enemy, 
and requesting Gen. Gates' permission to attend her husband. 

" Though I v/as ready to believe, for I had experienced, that 
patience and fortitude in a supreme degree, were to be found, as 
well as every other virtue, under the most tender forms, 1 was 
astonished at the proposal. After so long an agitation, exhaust- 
ed not only for want of rest, but absolutely want of food, drench- 
ed in rain for twelve hours together, that a woman should be ca- 
pabl-? of such an undertaking, as delivering herself to the enemy, 
probably in the night, and uncertain of what hands she might 
first fall into, appeared an effort above human nature. The as- 
surance I was enabled to give was small indeed. I had not even 
a cup of wine to offer; but I was told she found from some 
kind and fortunate hand, a little rum and dirty water. All 1 
could furnish to her was an open boat, and a few Hnes, written 
upon dirty and wet paper, to General Gates, recommending her 
to his protection." 

This letter was as follows : 

Sir, — Lady Harriet Ackland, a lady of the first distinction 
by family, rank, and personal virtues, is under such concern on 
account of Major Ackland^her husband, wounded and a prison- 

17* 



198 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

er in your hands, that I cannot refuse her request to commit 
her to yom protection. 

Whatever general impropriety there raay be in persons, act- 
ing m your situation and mine, to solicit favours, I cannot see 
the uncommon pre-eminence in every female grace and exalta- 
tion of character" in this lady, and her very hard fortune, with- 
out testifying that your attentions to her will lay me under obli- 
gations. 

/wr V r^^J^ Your obedient servant, 

M. (j. hates. T T» 

J. BURGOYNE. 

With this letter did this woman, who was of the most tender 
and delicate frame, habituated to all the soft elegancies and re- 
fined enjoyments, that attend high birth and fortune, and far ad- 
vanced in a state in which the tenderest cares, alwa}'S due to the 
sex, become indispensably necessary, in an open boat leave the 
camp of Burgoyne with a flag of truce for that of the enemy. 
The night was advanced before the boat reached the shore. 
Lady Harriet was immediately conveyed into the apartment of 
Major Henry Dearborn, since Blajor General, who commanded 
the guard at that place, and every attention was paid her which 
her rank and situation demanded, and which circumstances per- 
mitted. Early in the morning, she was permitted to proceed 
in the boat to the camp, where Gen. Gates, whose gallantry 
will not be denied, stood ready to receive her, with due respect 
and courtesy. Having ascertained that Major Ackland had set 
out for Albany, Lady Harriet proceeded, by permission, to join 
him. Some time after, Major Ackland effected his exchange, 
and returned to England. The catastrophe of this tale is affect- 
ing. Ackland, after his return to England, procured a regi- 
ment, and at a dinner of military men, where the courage of the 
Americans was made a question, took the negative side with his 
usual decision. He was opposed, warmth ensued, and he gave 
the lie direct to a Lieutenant Lloyd, fought him, and was shot 
through the head. Lady Harriet lost her senses, and continued 
deranged two years ; after which she married Mr. Bruden*D, 
who accompanied her froni Gen. Burgcyne's camp, when she 
sought her wounded husband on Hudson river. 

Section XLI. It would be difficult to describe 
the transports of joy which the news of the sur- 
render of Burgoyne excited among the Ameri- 
cans. They now began to look forward to the 
future with sanguine hopes, and eagerly expect- 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 199 

ed the acknowledgment of their country's inde- 
pendence by France and other European powers. 
The capitulation of Gen. Burgoyne, at Saratoga, 
was soon followed by an acknowledgment of the 
ndependence of America at the court of France,* 
and the conclusion of a formal treaty of alliance 
and commerce between the two countries — an 
event highly auspicious to the interests of Ame- 
rica. The treaty was signed Feb. 6th — " nei- 
ther of the contracting powers to make war or 
peace, without the formal consent of the other." 

For more than a year, commissioners from congress, at the 
liead ol whom was Dr. Franklin, had resided at the court of 
France, urging the above important steps. But the success of 
the Americsp ^struggle was yet too doubtful for that country to 
embroil herself in a war with Great Britain. The capture of 
the British army ^t Saratoga seemed to increase the probability 
that the AmerJcan arms would finally triumph, and decided 
France to espouse her cause. 

Section XLfl. Upon the conclusion of the 
campaign of 17 77, the British army retired to 
winter quarters in Philadelphia, and the Ameri- 
can army at Valley Forge, on the Schuylkill, fif- 
teen miles from Philadelphia. 

Scarcely were the American troops established in their en- 
campment, which consisted of liuts, before they were in danger 
of a famine. The adjacent country was nearly exhausted, and 
that which it might have spaied, the inhabitants concealed in the 
woods. At this time, also, bills of credit had fallen to one fourth 
of their nominal value, so that one hundred dollars, in paper, 
would command no more than twenty-five dollars, in specie. 
In addition to these scenes of perplexity and suffering, the army 
was nearly destitute of comfortable clothing. Many, for want 
of shoes, walked barefoot on the frozen ground: few, if any, 
had blankets for the night. Great numbers sickened. Near 
three thousand at a time were incapable of bearing arms. 



* Holland acknowledged the independence of the United States in 1782 ; 
Sweden in February, 1783 j Denmark in the same month ; Spain in March ; 
Russia in Julv. 



200 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

While the defenders of the country were thus suffering and pe« 
rishhigj the royal army was enjoying all the conveniences which 
an opulent city afforded. 

Sectioji XLIII. On the alliance of America 
with Franco^ it was resolved in Great Britain 
immediately to evacuate Philadelphia, and to 
concentrate the royal force in the city of New- 
York. In pursuance of this resolution, the royal 
army, on the 18th of June, passed the Delaware 
into New-Jersey, and continued their retreat to 
New- York. 

General Washington, penetrating their design, had already 
sent forward a detachment to aid the New-Jersey militia, in im- 
peding the progress of the enemy. With the main body of his 
army, he now crossed the Delaware in pursuit. June 28th, the 
two armies were engaged at Monmouth, sixty-four miles from 
Philadelphia, and after a severe contest, in which the Americans, 
upon the whole, obtained the advantage, were separated only by 
night. Gen. Washington and his army reposed on the field of 
battle, intending to renew the attack in the morning. But the 
British general, during the night, made good his retreat towards 
New-York. 

The sufferings of both armies during this engagement, from 
the heat of ihe day, were unparalleled in the history of the re- 
volutionary war. No less than fifty-nine British soldiers pe- 
rished from heat, and several of the Americans died through the 
same cause. The tongues of many of the soldiers were so swol- 
len, that it was impossible to retain them in the mouth. The 
loss of the Americans was eight officers, and sixty-one privates 
killed, and about one hundred and sixty wounded ; that of the 
British, in killed, wounded, and missing, \vas three hundred and 
fifty-eight men, including officers. One hundred were taken 
prisoners, and one thousand deserted during the march. 

Section XLIV. On the 1st of July, Count 
D'Estaing arrived at Newport, R. I. from France, 
with twelve ships of the line and six frigates, to 
act in concert with the Americans in an attempt 
on Rhode-Island, w^hich had been in possession 
of the British since December, 1776. 

Hearing of this expedition. Admiral Howe followed D'Es 
taing, and arrived in sight of Rhode-Island the day after thu 
FrencJa fleet had entered the harbour of Newport. On the ap 



PERIOD V... 1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 203 

pearance of Howe, the French admiral, instead of co-operating 
with the Americans, sailed out to give him battle. A storm, 
however, arising, separated the fleets. D'Estaing entered Bos* 
ton to repair. Howe, after the storm, returned to Rhode-Island, 
and landed Sir Henry Clinton, with four thousand troops — but^ 
fortunately, the Americans had raised the siege of Newport the 
day before, and left the island. — Sir Henry Clinton soon after 
sailed again for New-York. 

Section XLV. Hitherto the conquest of the 
States had been attempted, by proceeding from 
north to south ; but that order, towards the close 
of this year, began to be inverted, and the south- 
ern States became the principal theatre on 
which the British conducted their offensive 
operations. 

Georjria, being one of the weakest of the 
Southern States, was marked out as the first ob- 
ject of attack, in that quarter of the union. 

In November, Col. Campbell was despatched 
from New- York by Gov. Clinton, with a force of 
two thousand men, against Savannah, the capi- 
tal of that State. This expedition proved suc- 
cessful, and Savannah, and with it the State of 
Georgia itself, fell into the power of the Eng- 
lish. 

On the arrival of Campbell ami his troops at Savannah, he 
was opposed by Gen. Howe, the American officer, to whom 
was intrusted the defence of Georgia. His force, consisting of 
only 600 continentals, and a iew hundred militia, was inade- 
quate, however, to resist the enemy. After an engagement, in 
which the Americans killed upwards of one hundred, and took 
about four hundred and fifty prisoners, with several cannon, and 
large quantities of military stores, the capital surrendered. 

In the succeeding year, 1779, Count D'Estaing, who, after 
repairing his fleet at Boston, had sailed for the West Indies, 
returned with a design to co-operate with the Americans against 
the common enemy. In Sept. he arrived upon the coast of 
Georgia so unexpectedly that the Experiment, a man of war of 
fifty guns, and three frigates, fell into his hands. As soon as his 
arrival was known. Gen. Lincoln marched with the army under 
his commandj and some militia of South Carolina and Georgia, 



^02 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

;o co-operate with him in the reduction of Savannah. Belbr* 
Lincoln arrived, D'Estaing demanded the surrender of the town. 
This demand, General Prevost, the English commander, re* 
quested a day to consider, which was incautiously granted. 
Before the day expired, a reinforcement of eight hundred men 
joined the standard of Prevost from Beaufort, whereupon he bid 
defiance to D'Estaing. On the arrival of Lincoln, it was de- 
tei mined to lay siege to the place. Much time was spent in 
preparation, but in an assault under D'Estaing and Lincoln, the 
Americans suffered so severely, both as to their numbers, and 
in their works, that it was deemed expedient to abandon the 
project. Count D'Estaing re-embarked his troops, and left the 
continent. 

While the siege of Savannah was pending, one of the most 
extraordinary enterprises ever related in history, one, indeed, 
which nothing, but the respectability of the testimony, could 
have prevented our considering as marvellous, occurred. It 
was an enterprise conceived and executed by Colonel John 
White of the Georgia line. A Captain French, of Delancey's 
first battalion, was posted with one hundred men, British regu- 
lars, on the Ogeechee river, about twenty-five miles from Savan- 
Tish. There lay ako at the same place five armed vessels, the 
largest mounting fourteen guns, and having on board altogether 
forty-one men. Col. White, with Captain Etholm, three sol- 
diers, and his own servant, approached this post, on the even- 
ing of the 30th of September, kindled a number of fires, ar- 
ranging them in the manner of a large camp, arid summoned 
French to surrender, he and his comrades in the mean time 
riding about in various directions, and giving orders in a loud 
voice, as if performing the duties of the staff, to a large army. 
French, not doubting the reality of what he saw, and anxious 
to spare the effusion of blood, which a contest with a force so 
superior would produce, surrendered the whole detachment, to- 
gether with the crews of the five vessels, amounting in all to one 
hundred and forty-one men, and one hundred and thirty stands 
of arms ! 

Col White had still, however, a very difficult game to play ; 
it was necessary to keep up the delusion of Capt. French, until 
the prisoners should be secured ; and with this view, he pre- 
tended that the animosity of his troops was so ungovernable, 
that a little stratagem would be necessary to save the prisoners 
from their fury, and that he should therefore commit them to 
the care of three guides, with orders to conduct them to a place 
of safety. With many thanks for the colonel's humanity, 
French accepted the proposition, and marched off at a quick 
pace, under the direction of three guides, fearful, at every step, 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 203 

♦hat the rage of White's troops would burst upon them in de- 
fiance of his humane attempts to restrain them. White, as soon 
«s they were out of sight, employed himself in collecting the 
militia of the neighbourhood, with v/hom he overtook his prison- 
ers, and they were conducted in safety for twenty-five miles, to 
an American fort.* 

Section XLVl. The campaign of 1779 was 
distinguished for nothing splendid, or decisive, 
on the part either of America or England. 

The British seemed to have aimed at little 
more than to distress, plunder, and consume, it 
having been, early in the year, adopted as a prin- 
ciple upon v/hich to proceed, " to render the co- 
lonies of as little avail as possible to their nev/ 
connections." 

Actuated by these motives, an expedition was 
fitted out from New-York for Virginia, which, 
in a predatory incursion, took possession of large 
naval stores, magazines of provisions, and great 
quantities of tobacco. After enriching them- 
selves with various kinds of booty, and burning 
several places, they returned to New- York. 

Soon after this expedition to Virginia, a simi- 
lar one, under the command of the infamous 
Gov. Tryon, was projected against the maritime 
parts of Connecticut. During this expedition, 
New-Haven was plundered ; East-Haven, Fair- 
field, Norwalk, and Green's Farms, were wan- 
tonly burnt. 

In an account of the devastations made by the English in this 
expedition, which was transmitted to Congress, it appeared that 
at Fairfield there were burnt two houses of publick worship, fif- 
teen dwelling houses, eleven barns, and several stores. At Nor- 
walk, two houses of publick worship, eighty dwelling houses, 
sixty-seven barns, twenty-two stores, seventeen shops, four mills 
and five vessels. In addition to this wanton destruction of pro- 



♦ Allen's RevolutiiOB. 



204 PERIOD r....l775....1783....R»VOLUTION. 

perty, various were the acts of brutality, rapine, and cruelty, 
committed on aged persons, women, and prisoners. At New- 
Haven, an aged citizen, who laboured under a natural inability 
q£ speech, had his tongue cut out by one of the royal army. At 
Fairfield the deserted houses of the inhabitants were entered, 
desks, trunks, closets, and chests, were broken open and robbed 
of every thing valuable. Women were insulted, abused, and 
threatened, while their apparel was taken from them. Even an 
infant was robbed of its clothes, while a bayonet was pointed at 
the breast of its mother. 

About this time General Putnam, who had been stationed with 
a respectable force at Reading, in Connecticut, then on a visit to 
his out-post, at Horse Neck, was attacked by Governour Tryonj 
with one thousand five hundred men. Putnam had only a picket 
of one hundred and fifty men, and two field pieces, without 
horses or drag-ropes. He however placed his cannon on the 
high ground, near the meeting house, and continued to pour in 
upon the advancing foe, until the enemy's horse appeared upon 
a charge. The general now hastily ordered his men to retreat 
to a neighbouring swamp, inaccessible to horse, while he him- 
self put spurs to his steed, and plunged down the precipice at the 
church. 

This is so steep, as to have artificial stairs, composed of nearly 
one hundred stone steps, for the accommodation of worshippers 
ascending to the sanctuary. On the arrival of the dragoons at 
the brow of the hill, they paused, thinking it too dangerous to 
follow the steps of the adventurous hero. Before any could go 
round the hill and descend, Putnam had escaped, uninjured by 
the many balls which were fired at him in his descent ; but one 
touched him, and that only passed through his hat. He pro- 
ceeded to Stamford, where, having strengthened his picket with 
some militia, he boldly faced about and pursued Gov. Tryon on 
his return.* 

While the British were proceeding in these des^ lating opera" 
tions. Gen. Washington was loudly called upon by the suffering 
inhabitants, for continental troops to resist them ; but his cir- 
cumstances permitted him to spare but few. Had he listened 
to their calls, and divided his army conformably to the wishes 
of the invaded citizens, he would have exposed his whole force 
to ruin. Choosing rather to bear the reproaches which were by 
some heaped upon him, than to hazard the loss of every thing, 
he kept his array concentrated on both sides of the North River, 
at some distance from New-York, to prevent, if possible, the 



Ramsay. 



PERIOD V-..1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 205 

British from possessing themselves of West Point, sixty miks 
north of New- York, a post which they eagerly coveted, and the 
possession of which would have given them incalculable advan- 
tage over that part of the country. 

Section XLVII. The exertions of the Ameri- 
cans, during this campaign, were still more fee- 
ble than those of the enemy. Scarcely an ex- 
pedition was planned which merits any notice, 
and, with the exception of the reduction of 
Stoney Point, forty miles north of New- York, 
on the Hudson, scarcely any thing was accom- 
plished of importance. The reduction of this 
place. July 15th, was one of the most bold enter- 
prises which occurred in the history of the war. 

I . At this time, Stoney Point was in the condition of a real for- 
tress; it was furnished with a select garrison of more than six 
Imndred men, and had stores in abundance, and defensive pre- 
parations which were formidable. 

Fortified as it was, Gen. Washington ventured an attempt to 
reduce it. The enterprise was committed to Gen. Wayne, who, 
with a strong detachment of active infantry, set out tow^ards the 
place, at noon. His marcli of fourteen miles, over high moun- 
tains, through deep morasses, and difficult defiles, was accom- 
plished by eight o'clock in the evening. 

At the distance of a mile from the Point, Gen. Wayne halted, 
and formed his men into two columns, putting himself at the 
head of the right. Both columns were directed to march in order 
and silence, with unloaded muskets and Ifixed bayonets. At 
midnight they arrived under the walls of the fort. " An unex- 
pected obstacle now presented itself: the deep morass, which 
covered the works, was at this time, overflowed by the tide. 
The English opened a tremendous fire of musketry and of can- 
non loaded with grape shot : but neither the inundated morass, 
nor a double palisade, nor the storm of fire that was poured 
upon them, couid arrest the impetuosity of th« Americans; 
they opened their way with the bayonet, prostrated whatever 
opposed them, scaled the fort, and the two columns met in the 
centre of the works. The English lost upwards of six hundred 
men in killed and prisoners. The conquerors abstained from 
pillage, and from all disorder; a conduct the more worthy, a» 
they had still present in mind, the ravages and butcheries, 
which their enemies had so recently committed in Virginia and 

18 



206 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

Connecticut. Humanity imparted new effulgence to the victory 
which valour had obtained.''* 

Section XLVIII. Another expedition, plan- 
ned and executed this year, entitled to some 
notice, was one under Gen. Sullivan, against 
the Six Nations, which, with the exception of 
the Oneidas, had been induced, by the English, 
to take up arms against America. 

At the head of between four and five thousand 
men, Gen. Sullivan marched into the country, 
up the Susquehannah, and attacked the Indians, 
in well constructed fortifications. The resist- 
ance of the savages was warlike. Being over- 
powered, however, they were obliged to flee. 
Gen. Sullivan, according to his instructions, 
proceeded to lay waste their country. Forty 
villages were consumed, and one hundred and 
sixty thousand bushels of corn were destroyed. 

Section XLIX. It has already been stated, 
that the campaign of 1779 was remarkable for 
the feeble exertions of the Americans. Among 
the causes which contributed to lessen their ac- 
tivity, the failure of the French fleet, in every 
scheme undertaken for their benefit, was no in- 
considerable one. America had expected much 
from an alliance with France, and looked to the 
French fleet under D'Estaing, to hasten the 
downfall of British power in the country. But 
when they perceived nothing equal to their ex- 
pectation accomplished, they became despond- 
ent, and exertion was enfeebled. 

But another, and a still more powerful cause 
of these feeble exertions, on the part of the 
Americans, was the daily depreciation of their 
bills of credit. 

«BaMsu 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 207 

As the contest between England and America originated in 
the subject of taxation, it was early perceived, by the continent- 
al congress, that the imposition of taxes, adequate to the exigen- 
cies of war, even if practicable, would be impolitick. The only 
expedient, therefore, in their power to adopt, was the emission 
of bills of credit, representing specie, under a publick engage- 
ment, ultimately to redeem those bills, by an exchange of gold 
or silver. 

Accordingly, in June, 1775, on the resolution to raise an 
arm}^, congress issued bills of credit, to the amount of two mil- 
lions of dollars. This emission was followed, the next month, 
by the issue of another million. For their redemption, the con- 
federated colonies were pledged — each colony to provide means 
U) I ay its proportion, by the year 1779. 

L. the early periods of the war, the enthusiasm of the people 
for liberty made them comparatively indifferent to property. 
The cause was popular, and the publick credit good. Bills of 
credit, therefore, by common consent, rapidly circulated, and 
calculations about private interest were, in a great measure, 
suspended. 

It was obvious, however, that there was a point, beyond 
which the credit of these bills would not extend. At the expi- 
ration of eighteen months from their first emission, when about 
twenty millions had been issued, they began to depreciate. At 
first, the diminution of their value was scarcely perceptible, but 
from that time it daily increased. 

Desirous of arresting the growing depreciation, congress at 
length resorted to loans and taxes. But loans were difficult to 
negociate, and taxes, in several of the States, could not be col- 
lected. Pressed with the necessities of an array, congress 
found themselves obliged to continue to issue bills, after they 
had begun to depreciate, and to pay that depreciation, by in- 
creasing the sums emitted. By the year 1780, the amount in 
circulation was the overwhelming sum of two hundred millions. 

The progress of this depreciation is worthy of notice. — To- 
wards the close of 1777, the depreciation was two or three for 
one; in '78, five or six for one; in 'T9, twenty-seven or twenty- 
eight for one ; in '80, fifty or sixty for one, in the first four or 
five months. From this date, the circulation of these oills was 
limited, but where they passed, they soon depreciated to one 
hundred and fifty for one, and finally, several hundreds for one. 

Several causes contributed to sink the value of the continental 
currency. The excess of its quantity at first begat a natural 
depreciation. This was increased by the enemy, who counter 
feited the bills, and spread theii- forgeries through the States. 
Publick agents, who received a commission to the amount of 



208 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

their purchases, felt it to be their interest to give a high price 
for all coiiimodities. These causes, co-operating with the de- 
cline of publick confidence, and the return of more selfish feel- 
ings, rapidly increased the depreciation, until bills of credit, or 
what has been commonly called, " continental currency," be- 
came of little or no value. 

The evils which resulted from this system were immense. 
Under it, it became extremely difficult to raise an army, and to 
provide necessaries for its subsistence. At the same time, it 
originated discontents among the officers and soldiers, since 
their pay, in this depreciated currency, was inadequate to the 
support of their families at home. " Four months pay, of a pri- 
vate, would not procure his family a single bushel of wheat, and 
the pay of a colonel would not purchase oats for his horse.'' 
Under circumstances like these, it reflects the highest honour 
upon Washington, that his wisdom and prudence shoukl have 
been able to keep an army together. 

In addition to these evils, which fell so heavily upon the 
army, others, not less deplorable, fell upon the community. In 
order to prevent the growing depreciation of their bills, con- 
gress directed that they should be a legal tender. But this, 
while ir did not much retard the regular diminution of their 
value, was the source of immeasurable injustice and distress. 

The aged, who had retired to enjoy the fruits of their indus- 
try, found their substance but a scanty pittance. The widow 
was compelled to take a shilling, where a pound was her due, 
and the orphan was obliged to discharge an executor on the 
payment of sixpence on the pound. In many instances, the 
earnings of a long life were, in a few years, reduced to a triffing 
sum. 

Had congress foreseen these evils, they would have guarded 
against them. But it was a day of poverty and experiment. 
They designed no injustice. They had placed before them the 
freedom of the country from the yoke of British dominion, and 
if, in their zeal to effect it, they sometimes erred, the sufferings 
which resulted from their ignorance have been a thousand times 
Compensated, by the subsequent enjoyments of a free and inde- 
pendent people. 

Section L. Towards the close of the year 
1779, Sir Henry Clinton, committing the Eng- 
lish garrison of New-York to Gen. Kniphausen, 
embarked with a force of between seven and 
eight thousand men, for the reduction of Charles- 



k'^ \ , tl.^\.l775....l783..-BEVOL-TION. 209 

ton,\<^/-''^ir" „. .iiiia, which important object be 
accoiitplished on the 12th of May, 1780. 

After a tempestuous vojage of some weeks, in which severa» 
transports were lost, the army arrived at Savannah, whence 
they sailed on their destined purpose. On the 2d of April, 
1780, Gen. Clinton opened his batteries against Charleston. 
Gen. Lincoln, at this time, commanded the American forces of 
the south. Urged by the inhabitants, on the approach of the 
enemy, to continue in Charleston, and assist in repelling the 
attack, he consented to remain, and, with Gov. Rutledge, in- 
dustriously forwarded preparations for defence. 

NotvvithstaHtiding these preparations, the batteries of the ene- 
my soon obtained a decided* superiority over those of the town, 
and left but little reason to the besieged to hope that they should 
be able to defend the place. A council of war, held on the 21st, 
agreed that a retreat would probably be impracticable, and ad- 
vised that offers of capitulation should be made to Gen. Chnton, 
which might admit of the arm37-''s w ithdrawing, and afford secu- 
rity to the persons and property of the inhabitants. 

On the proposal of these terms, they were rejected. Hostili- 
ties were now renewed by the garrison, and returned with unu- 
sual ardour by the British. On the 11th of May, finding the 
longer defence of the place impracticable, a number of citizens 
addressed Gsn. Lincoln, advising him to capitulate. Acquies- 
cing in the measure, painful as it was. Gen. Lincoln again pre- 
sented terms of capitulation, which being accepted, the Ameri- 
can army, amounting to 5000, together with the inhabitants of 
the place, and four hundred pieces of artillery, were surrendered 
to the British. 

The loss on both sides, during the siege, was nearly equal. Of 
the royal troops, seventy-six were killed, and one hundred and 
eighty-nine wounded. Of the Americans, eighty-nine were kill- 
ed, and one hundred and forty wounded. By the articles of ca- 
pitulation, the garrison was to march out of town, and to deposit 
their arms in front of the w orks, but, as a mark of humiliation, 
which, eighteen months afterwards, was remembered and re- 
taliated on Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown, the drums were not 
to beat a British march, nor the colours to be uncased. 

Section LI. Shortly after the surrender of 
Charleston, Sir Henry Clinton, leaving four 
thousand men for the southern service, under 
Lord Cornwallis, returned to New- York. Bri- 
tish garrisons were now posted in different parts 
of the State of South Carolina, to awe the in- 

18* 



210 PERIO^D V. t'r75....i7g3....B/OLUT10N. 

habitants, and to secure their submission to the 
British government. 

The spirit of freedom, however, still remained 
with the people, nor was it easy to subdue that 
spirit, how much soever it might be temporarily 
repressed, by royal and oppressive menace. 

Notwithstanding the efforts of his majesty ^s 
servants to preserve quietness, the month of July 
did not pass by in peace. General Sumpter, a 
man ardently attached to the cause 4bf liberty, 
in several engagements in South Carolina, with 
the English and their partizans, gained great 
advantages over theui, and in one instance, re- 
duced a regiment — the prince of Wales' — from 
two hundred and seventy-eight to nine. 

While Sumpter was thus keeping up the spi- 
rits of the people by a succession of gallant ex- 
ploits, a respectable force was advancing through 
the middle States, for the relief of their south- 
ern brethren. 

We shall interrupt the thread of our history to relate the per- 
sonal adventures of Major General Wadsworth, in the district 
of Maine, during the spring of this year, 1780. He had been 
sent by the legislature of Massachusetts, to command in that 
part of the country. Having attended to the objects of his mis- 
sion during the summer of '79, and the principal part of the suc- 
ceeding winter, he dismissed his troops towards the end of Feb- 
ruary, and began to prepare for his return to Boston. le had 
be«n accompanied during this time by Mrs. Wadsworth, and a 
friend of hers, Miss Fenno, of that place. 

His preparations, however, were discovered by a disaffected 
inhabitant in the neighbourhood, who gave intelligence to the 
commander of the Britisn fort at Bagaduce, and assured him 
that the general might easily be made a prisoner. No tim« was 
lost. Twenty-five soldiers, with the proper officers, were sooa 
embarked on board a vessel, in which they proceeded to an in- 
let, four miles from the general's quarters. Here they landed 
under cover of night, and lying concealed till near midnight, 
they proceeded on their destined purpose. 

The nature of the ground was such as to conceal them, until 
ihey had arrived at the house. The sentinel, being surprised, 



PERIOD V...1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 211 

sprung into the kit chen door, and was followed by a volley froifc 
the assailants, and b}'^ some of the assailants themselves. Ano- 
ther party blew in the windows of the General's bed-rooni;, 
whilst a third party, forcing the windows of Miss Fenno, rushed 
into her apartment. 

The general's room being barred, he determined to make 
what resistance he was able. Accordingly, as the assailants ap- 
proached his apartment, he repeatedly discharged his pistols, a 
blunderbuss, and fusee. At length a ball from the kitchen broke 
bis arm, and terminated the contest. 

The party, apprehensive of danger, now retired in haste, tak- 
ing with them the wounded general, but leaving his wife and 
Miss Fenno, 4o emotions the most intense. After proceeding 
with some difficulty near a mile, General Wadsworth was put 
on a horse, behind a mounted soldier, and being warned that 
silence alone would ensure his safety, the party at length reach- 
ed the vessel, which immediately sailed for the fort. 

Near the close of the day the party arrived with their charge. 
General Wadsworth landed amidst the shouts of a multitude, 
which had assembled to see the man, who had justly excited 
their admiration, by his enterprises in that quarter, and, under 
a guard, was conducted to the officers' guard room. Here his 
wounds were dressed ; a room in the officers' barracks was as- 
signed him, and through the civility of General Campbell, the 
commandant of the fort, who often visited him, his situation was 
rendered as comfortable as could be expected. 

General Wadsworth, however, was a prisoner and alone. 
Nothing could supply the place of freedom, to which a spirit 
like his constantly aspired, or of domestick happiness, which, 
though a soldier of the most ardent stamp, he well knew how 
to appreciate. Added to this, his wound, during the first two 
weeks, had become so inflamed as to confine him entirely to his 
room. 

At the expiration of this time, he had the happiness to hear 
from his wife by means of an officer, bearing a flag of truce, 
who at his request had been despatched by General Campbell 
with a letter to her, and another to the governour of Massachu- 
setts. The intelligence he received from Mrs. Wadsworth, of 
her safety, and especially of that of his little son, who he supposed 
had been killed the night he was taken prisoner — was peculiar- 
ly gratifying. So far from having been injured, his son had 
slept amidst all the horrors of the scene, and only knew of the 
transactions of the dreadful night, by the devastations he saw 
around him in the morning. 

At the end of five weeks, when his wounds were nearly healed, 
*he general requested the customary privilege of a parole. Clr* 



212 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

cumstances, however, existed which rendered it necessary to 
deny him, and he acquiesced. About this time Mrs. Wadsworth 
and Miss Fenno, under protection of a passport from General 
Campbell, visited him. The visit lasted ten daj^s, to their mu- 
tual satisfaction. 

In the mean time, orders respecting him had arrived from the 
commanding general at New-York. Of the tenor of these or- 
ders. General Wadsworth was ignorant, but their unpropitious 
nature was indicated by the change of conduct and counte 
nance in some of the officers. Miss Fenno had accidentally 
learned their import, but she carefully concealed her knowledge, 
until the moment of her departure, when, to prevent suspicion, 
she barely said, " General Wadsworth, take care of yourself." 
From the servants, not long after, he learned that instead of be- 
ing exchanged, he was to be sent to England. 

In the course of some days, Major Benjamin Burton, a brave 
officer, was conveyed as a prisoner to Bagaduce, and lodged in 
the same room with General Wadsworth. He confirmed the 
report of the servants respecting the transportation of the gene- 
ral to England, and learned, not long after, that he himself was 
destined to a similar fate. The monitory caution of Miss Fenno 
was now explained, and the geneial plainly saw the importance 
of attending to it. These officers were not long in deciding that 
they would not cross the Atlantick ; and though scarcely a ray 
of hope presented hself to encourage them, they nevertheless re- 
solved to attempt to escape. 

Bagaduce, on which the fort stands, is a peninsula of mode- 
rate extent, washed by considerable Avaters on every side, ex- 
cept the sandy beach which connects it with the main land on 
the west. The fort stands on the middle of the peninsula. The 
prisoners were confined in a grated room in the officers' bar- 
racks. The walls of the fort, exclusively of the depth of the 
ditch surrounding it, were twenty feet high, with frasing on the 
top, and chevaux-de-frise below. Sentinels were stationed in 
every place in and about the fortress, where their presence could 
be supposed to be necessary. Escape, therefore, seemed al- 
most impracticable. 

After several plans proposed by the prisoners for their escape, 
they settled at length upon the following. As the room in 
which thej were confined was ceiled with boards, they deter- 
mined to out off one of these so as to admit their entrance. 
After passinp^ through, they proposed to creep along one of the 
joists to which these boards were nailed, and thus to pass over 
the room adjoining it, which belonged to the officers, until they 
should come to the middle entry, and then by a blanket, which 
was to be taken with them, to let themselves down in this en^y. 



PERIOD V....l775..a783....1iEVOLUTION. 213 

In case of being observed, they agreed upon several stratagems 
to be employed, in order that their attempt might be crowned 
with success. 

In agreement with this plan, after the sentinel had taken the 
required precaution in regard to the prisoners, and seen them in 
bed, General Wadsworth arose, and attempted to make the 
necessary incision into the board with his knife. But he found 
the attempt useless, and hazardous, since it could be done nei- 
ther with the necessary expedition nor without noise. This 
part of the design was therefore abandoned. He, however, 
soon found means, through the agency of a soldier, who was his 
barber, to procure a gimblet without exciting a suspicion as to the 
purpose for which he intended it. 

On the succeeding night, they made the attempt with their 
gimblet, but this also occasioned too much noise. They resolved 
next to make the experiment in the day time ; and although 
two sentinels in walking the entry every moment or two passed 
by their door, which had a glass window in it, and although 
they were exposed every hour to the intrusion of their servants, 
or of the officers of the fort, they succeeded in perforating the 
ceiling from time to time. The stratagem was simply this. As 
the sentinels were in the habit of pacing the entry backwards 
and forwards, the prisoners would commence the same tour in 
their own room, being careful to keep time with them, and both 
to pass at the same instant by the glass door ; but as the senti- 
nels had to go twice the length the prisoners had, this afforded 
an opportunity for one of the latter to be engaged with the gim- 
blet in the mean time, and then to join his companion as the 
sentinels came back. 

In this manner a sufficient number of holes were bored in the 
eourse of three weeks. The small spaces between the holes 
were cut with a pen-knife, except one at each corner, in order 
to hold the piece in its proper place, till they were ready finally 
to remove it. The wounds in the mean time were covered over 
with a paste made of chewed bread, resembling the colour of the 
Doard, and the dust was carefully swept from the floor. All 
this was done without suspicion from any quarter. 

Their conveyance to New- York, or Halifax, and thence to 
Enghnd, was understood to be by a privateer, which was then 
on a (ruise, but was soon expected to return. Their attention 
of course was arrested by every thing which they heard relative 
to this vessel, and they made every unsuspicious inquiry in 
their power, concerning the situation of the fort, the posting of 
the sentinels, and similar subjects. The information thus ob- 
tained, enabled General Wadsworth, who had previously some 



214 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUT10N. 

knowledge of the place, to form a correct view of the whoh: 

ground. 

During this time they made what little preparations they 
were able, as to provisions, and other things, that related to 
their intended escape. At the end of three weeks they were all 
ready. The privateer was daily expected to return, which 
would disconcert all their purposes, and they wished nothing 
more than such an opportunity as a dark and rainy night would 
afiord, in order to their deliverance. During a whole week no 
such opportunity offered, and, together with this fact, some cir- 
cumstances, tending to excite a belief that their design was sus- 
pected, occurred, and rendered their anxiety extreme. 

At length the favourable occasion was presented. A storm 
on the l8th of June brought on an unusual degree of darkness 
and rain. At about eleven o'clock the prisoners retired appa- 
rently to rest, while the sentinel was looking through the glass 
door. No sooner, however, were their lights extinguished, than 
they arose; their first object was to cut the corners of the 
board, through which they were to make their escape. An 
hour was spent in accomplishing this purpose, and as it was 
attended with considerable noise, it was not done without dan- 
ger. 

Burton first passed through the aperture. His size rendered 
it a difficult attempt. The general, akhough smaller, found even 
greater difficulty from the weakness of his arm. But the ur- 
gency of the case induced h-im to put forth every effort. By 
means of a chair, on which he stood, and a blanket fastened 
with a skewer put through the hole, he raised himself through. 
The noise made by these attempts, and even the cackling of the 
fowls that roosted above the rooms were unheeded, being drown- 
ed by the torrents of rain pouring incessantly on the roof of the 
building. 

By agreement, when Burton had reached the middle entry, 
he was to wait for the general ; the latter, however, when he 
had gained the place was unable to find him, but judging from 
appearances that he had escaped through the door, he followed 
on. Passing partly round the building in order to gain the 
western side, he felt his way directly under the eaves, lest he 
should strike against some person, an event to which he was 
exposed in consequence of the extreme darkness. From this 
point he niad^ his way towards the neighbouring wall of the 
fort, but was unable to climb the bank until he had found out 
an oblique path. 

Just as he had gfained the place on the north bastion, where 
Burton and himself had agreed to cross the wall, the guard 
house doorj on the opposite «ide of the fort, was thrown open, 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 215 

and the words " Relief turn out" were dictinctly sounded. At 
this instant he heard a scrambling in a contrary direction, 
which he knew must be made by his companion. This was a 
critical moment. The general was in danger of being trod on 
by the guard, as they came around on the top of the wall, and 
he barely prevented this catastrophe, by getting himself and his 
wet blanket upon the fraising, which was the outward maigin of 
the wall. 

After the guard had passed on, by means of his blanket, 
fastened round a picket of the fraising, he let himself down as 
near the ground as the length of the blanket would admit, 
and then let go his hold, and fell without injury. Having 
mado several movements with great silence, in order to clear 
himself from the works connected with the fort, he at length 
found himself descending the declivity of the hill, into the open 
field. All this was done, not without extreme diffic Jty, owing 
to the lameness of his arm. No indications appeared that he 
was as yet discovered. 

As the rain and darkness continued, he groped his way to an 
old guard house on the shore of the back cove. At this build- 
ing he and his companion had agreed to meet, should they have 
been previously separated. Burton, however, after a long- 
search was not to be found. Accordingly the general prepared 
to cross the cove, and happily succeeded, as the time was that 
of low water. It was now about two o'clock in the morning, 
and he had proc^-eded a mile and a half from the fort. His 
course lay up a sloping acclivity, which at the time happened 
to be overspread with trees, a circumstance thnt greatly impeded 
his progress. He proceeded a mile over the ground, till he 
reached the summit, where he found a road, which, however, 
he soon left for the woods, in order to make his way to the 
river. Here the day dawned, and he heard tht- reveille beat at 
the fort. At sun-rise he reached the eastern shore of the Penob- 
scot. Choosing however not to cross the river at that place, 
he continued his way still higher up at the foot of the bank, 
passing near the water, so as to have his steps washed by the 
tide. By this means he hoped to be secure from the blood- 
hounds kept at the fort. Having reached a place at a distance 
of seven miles from the fort, where it was necessary for him to 
cross the river, and where he found a canoe lying on the shore, 
he concluded to rest for a time, and dry his clothes. While in 
this situation, what was his joy to descry his friend Burton ap- 
proaching him, in the very track which he himself had taken. 

The major, after having passed through the hole in the ceil- 
injPf, immediately made his way into the second entry, and con- 
claciuag that his friend would be unable to pass through the iiolcj 



216 PERIOD V....1775. .1783,...HEV0LUTI0N. 

for want of assistance in the room, thought it best to complete 
his escape alone. He met with little difficulty till the door of 
the guard room was suddenly opened, and supposing that a dis- 
covery had taken place, he immediately leaped from the wall ; 
fortunately receiving no injury, though his life was singularly 
exposed by the leap, he easily escaped into the open ground. 

Mistaking the ground he should have taken, Burton suddenly 
found himself near a sentinel, who was one of a picket guard, 
stationed not far from the isthmus. As however he was not 
perceived, he found means silently to withdraw from his unwel- 
come neighbour, and entering the water on the side of the 
isthmus next the river, he pEissed over to the opposite side above 
the picket. This undertaking was hazardous in the extreme, 
and cost him an hour's excessive toil. Chilled and exhausted 
he then took his way through the forest, which the general had 
taken before, and by this means rejoined him. 

The two friends entered the canoe, and as they were in the 
expectation of being pursued by the enemy, they proposed to 
cross the river obliquely. While executing this project, a barge 
belonging to the British came in sight at some distance. Cir- 
cumstances, however, favoured the concealment of the officers, 
and by hard rowing they landed out of reach of their pursuers. 
For greater safety they abandoned the shoi)<e, and directed their 
course through the forests towards the head of St. George's 
river. A compass which Burton had fortunately retained was 
their guide. Though greatly incommoded by showers, heat, 
and the obstructions of a forest, they travelled twenty-five miles 
by sun-set. 

They made less progress however the next day ; and on the 
third day, General'VVadsworth, from soreness, lameness, and fa- 
tigue, proposed to stop where he was, until his friend, "by pro- 
ceeding onward to the nearest settlement, could bring him re- 
lief. To this plan, however. Burton strenuously objected. 
They then both proposed to refresh themselves with a little 
sleep. This they did in the heat of the day, and found the ef- 
fect so beneficial, that they were invigorated to pursue their 
journey, which they finished at six o'clock, P. M., by reaching 
the settlements towards which they had directed their course. 
The inhabitants flocked around them with the strongest expres- 
sions of joy, and having formed themselves into a guard for their 
protection, conducted these officers to an inn,jiot far from the 
place where the general was taken prisoner. Parties of the 
enemy were lurking round in order to way-lay them, and they 
were saved from falling again into their hands only by the de- 
fence which was so generously afforded them. Burton soon 
leached his family. General Wadsworth set out for Portland 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....11EVOLUTION. 217 

where he expected to find Mrs. Wadsworlh. But she and Miss 
Fenno had sailed for Boston, before his arrival. 

He immediately proceeded to join them at that place. On 
his arrival, he found that they had suffered much from the want 
of money and friends, besides being nearly shipwrecked on their 
way. The past however was forgotten in the felicities of the 
present and in gratitude to a kind Providence, through which 
they had escaped perils both by sea and land.* 

Section LII. The southern army, now placed 
under the command of Gates, the hero of Sara- 
toga — General Lincoln having been superseded, 
amounted to four thousand ; but of these scarcely 
one thousand were regular troops, the rest con- 
sisting of militia, from North Carolina, Maryland, 
and Virginia. 

As this army approached South Carolina, Lord 
Rawdon, who commanded on the frontier, under 
Lord Cornwallis, concentrated the royal forces, 
two thousand in number, at Camden, one hun- 
dred and twenty miles northwest from Charles- 
ton. Here Cornwallis, on learning the move- 
ments of the Americans, joined him. 

On the morning of the 16th of August, the two 
armies met, and a severe and general action en- 
sued, in which, through the unpardonable failure 
of the militia, the British gained a decided ad- 
vantage. 

At the first onset, a large body of the Virginia militia, under 
a charge of the British infantry with fixed bayonets, threw down 
their arms, and fled. A considerable part of the North Caro- 
lina militia followed their unworth}' example. But the conti- 
nental troops evinced the most unyielding firmness, and pressed 
forward with unusual ardour. Never did men acquit them- 
selves more honourably. They submitted only when forsaken 
by their brethren in arms, and when overpowered by numbers. 

In this battle, the brave Baion de Kalb, second in command, 
at the head of the Marylanders, fell, covered wfth wounds, 
which he survived only a few days. De Kalb was a German 



Dwight's Travels. 

19 



218 PERIOD V...a775....1783....REVOLUT10N. 

by birth, and had formerly served in the armies of the French. 
In consideration of his distinguished merit, as an officer and 
soldier, congress resolved that a monument should be erected to 
his memory at Annapolis. 

The battle of Camden was exceedingly bloody. The field of 
battle, the road and swamps, for some distance, were covered 
with wounded and slain. The number of Americans killed, 
although not certain, probably amounted to between six and 
seven hundred, and the wounded and prisoners to one thou- 
sand three hundred or one thousand four hundred. The British 
stated their loss to be only three hundred and twenty four, in 
killed and wounded ; but it was probably much greater. 

Section LIII. " The disaster of the army, un- 
der Gen. Gates, overspread, at first, the face of 
American aifairs with a dismal gloom ; but the 
day of prosperity to the United States began, as 
will appear in the sequel, from that moment to 
dawn. 

** Their prospects brightened, while those of 
their enemies were obscured by disgrace, broken 
by defeat, and, at last, covered with ruin. Elat- 
ed with their victories, the conquerors grew more 
insolent and rapacious, while the real friends of 
independence became resolute and determined." 

Section LIV. While the campaign of 1780 
was thus filled up with important events in the 
southern department, it passed away, in the 
northern States, in successive disappointments, 
and reiterated distresses. 

In June, a body of five thousand of the enemy, 
under Gen. Kniphausen, entered New- Jersey, 
and, in addition to plundering the country, wan- 
tonly burnt several villages. 

On the arrival of this body at Connecticut Farms, a small 
settlement containing about a dozen houses and a church, they 
burnt the whole. At this place there resided a presbyterian mi- 
nister by the name of Caldwell, who had taken a conspicuous 
part in the cause of freedom, and who had, of course, incurred 
the deep displeasure of Gen. Kniphausen. Supposing, how- 
eyvYy that tlie generai'^ resemment would be confined to him, 



PERIOD V....l?75....l783....REVOLUTION. 219 

and that his family would be safe on the approach of the enemy, 
he hastily withdrew, leaving his wife and children to their mer- 
cy. Col. Drayton had previously withdrawn the militia from the 
place, that there might be no pretext for enormities ; but the 
British soldiers in the American war, did not wait for pretexts 
to be cruel. Mrs. Caldwell was shot in the midst of her chil- 
dren, by a villain, who walked up to the window of the room 
in which she was sitting, and took deliberate aim with his mus- 
ket. This atrocious act was attempted to be excused as an ac- 
cident, as a random shot ; but the attempt at palliation served 
only to increase the crime. 

Besides these predatory incursions, by which 
the inhabitants suffered alarm, distress, and de- 
struction of property, they suffered greatly, also, 
from the constantly diminishing value of their 
paper currency, and from unfavourable crops. 

The situation of Sen. Washington, often during the war em- 
barrassing, had been distressing through the winter, in his en- 
campment at Morristown. The cold was more intense than it 
had ever been known to be before in this climate, within the 
memory of the oldest inhabitant. The winter, to this day, bears 
the distinctive epithet of the hard lointer. The army suffered 
extremely, and often had Washington the prospect before him 
of being obliged to break up his encampment, and disband his 
soldiers. 

The return of spring brought little alleviation to 'heir distress. 
Great disorder pervaded the departments for supplying the army. 
Abuses crept in, frauds were practised, and notwithstanding the 
poverty of the country, economy, on the part of the commissa- 
ries, was exiled. 

In May, a committee from congress visited the army, and re- 
ported to that body, an account of the distresses and disorders 
conspicuously prevalent. In particular, they stated, " that the 
army was unpaid for five months — that it seldom had more than 
six days' provisions in advance, and was, on several occasions, 
for sundry successive days, without meat — that the medical de- 
partment had neither sugar, coffee, tea, chocolate, wine, nor spi- 
rituous liquors of any kind ; and that every department of the 
array was without money, and had not even the shadow of cre- 
dit left." 

Section LV. But under all this tide of evils, 
there appeared no disposition, in public bodies, 
to purchase their relief by concession. They 



220 PERIOD V....1775....1783....RE\ OLUTION. 

seemed, on the contrary, to rise in the midst of 
their distresses, and to gain firmness and strength 
by the pressure of calamity. 

Section LVI. Fortunately for the Americans, 
as it seemed, M. de Ternay arrived at Rhode- 
Islnnd, July 10th, from France, with a squadron 
of seven sail of the line, five frigates, and five 
smaller armed vessels, with several transports, 
and six thousand men, all under command of 
Lieutenant General Count de Rochambeau. 
Great was the joy excited by this event, and high 
raised expectettioiis were inditlged from the as- 
sistance of so powerful a force against the ene- 
my. But the British fleet, in our waters, waa 
still superior, and that of the French, and the 
French army, were for a considerable time, in- 
capacitated from co-operating with the Ameri- 
cans, by being blocked up at Rhode-Island. 

The arrival of the French fleet, at Newport, was greeted by 
the citizens with every demonstration of joy. The town was 
illuminated, and congratulatory addresses were exchanged. As 
a symbol of friendship and affection for the allies, Gen. Wash- 
ington rcconiQiended to the American officers, to wear black and 
white cockades, the ground to be of the iirst colour, and the re- 
hef of the second. 

Section LVII. The fortress of West-Point, on 
the Hudson, sixty miles north of New- York, 
and its importance to the Americans, has already 
been noticed. Of this fortress. Gen. Arnold had 
solicited and obtained the command. Soon af- 
ter assuming the command, Arnold entered in- 
to negotiations with Sir Henry Clinton, to make 
such a disposition of the forces in the fortress, 
as that the latter might easily take possession of 
it by surprise. Fortunately for America, this 
base plot was seasonably discovered to prevent 
the ruinous consequences that must have follow- 
ed. Arnold, however, escaped to the enemy 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 221 

loaded with infamy and disgrace. Andre, the 
agent of the British, in this negotiation, was tak- 
en, and justly expiated his crime on the gal- 
lows, as a spy. 

Major Andre, at this time adjutant-general of the British 
army, was an officer extremely young — but high-minded, brave, 
and accomplished. He was transported in a vessel called the 
Vulture, up the North river, as near to West Point as was prac- 
ticable, without exciting suspicion. On the 21st of September, 
at night, a boat was sent from the shore, to bring hira. On its 
return, Arnold met him at the beach, without the posts of either 
army. Their business was not finished, till too near the dawn 
of day for Andre to return to the Vulture. He, therefore, lay 
concealed within the American lines. During the day, the Vul- 
ture found it necessary to change her position, and Andre, not 
being able now to get on board, was compelled to attempt his 
return to New-York by land. 

Having changed his miUtary dress for a plain coat, and re- 
ceived a passport from Arnold, under the assumed name of 
John Anderson, he passed the guards and outposts, without 
suspicion. On his arrival at Tarrytown, a village thirty miles 
north of New- York, in the vicinity of the first British posts, he 
was met by three militia soldiers — John Paulding, David Wil- 
liams, and Isaac Van Wert. He showed them his passport, 
and they suffered him to continue his route. Immediately after 
this, one of these three men, thinking that he perceived something 
singular in the person of the traveller, called him back. Andre 
asked them where they were from ? " From'down below," they 
replied, intending to say, from New-York. Too frank to sus- 
pect a snare, Andre immediately answered, " And so am I." 

Upon this, they arrested him, when he declared himself to be 
a British officer, and oflered them his watch, and all the gold 
he had with him, to be released. These soldiers were poor and 
obscure, but they were not to be bribed. Resolutely refusing 
his offers, they conducted him to Lieutenant Col. Jameson, their 
commanding officer. 

Jameson injudiciously permitted Andre, still calling himself 
Anderson, to write to Arnold, who immediately escaped on 
board the Vulture, and took refuge in New- York. 

Washington, on his way to head quarters, from Connecticut 
— where he had been to confer with Count de Rochambeau — 
providentially happened to be at West Point, just at this time. 
After taking measures to insure the safety of the fort, he ap- 
pointed a board, of which Gen. Greene was president, to decide 
upon the condition and punishment of Andre. 

19* 



222 " PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

After a patient hearing of the case, September 29th, in which 
every feeling of kindness, liberality, and generous sympathy 
was strongly evinced, the board, upon his own confession, una- 
nimously pronounced Andre a spy, and declared, that agree- 
ably to tJie laws and usages of nations, he ought to suffer death. 

Major Andre had many friends in the American army, and 
even Washington would have spared him, had duty to his 
country permitted. Every possible effort was made by Sir 
Henry Clinton in his favour, but it was deemed important that 
the decision of the hoard of war should be carried into execu- 
tion. When Major Andre was apprised of the sentence of 
death, he made a last appeal, in a letter to Washington, that 
he might be shot, rather than die on a gibbet. 

" Buoyed above the terrour of death," said he, " by the 
consciousness of a life devoted to honourable pursuits, and 
stained with no action that can give .me remorse, I trust that 
the request I make to your excellency at this serious period, and 
which is to soften my last moments, will not be rejected. Sym- 
pathy towards a soldier will surely induce your excellency, and 
a military friend, to adapt the mode of my death to the feelings 
of a man of honour. Let me hope, sir, that if aught in my 
character impresses you with esteem towards me, as the victim 
of policy and resentment, I shall experience the operation of 
those feelings in your breast by being informed that I am not to 
die on a gibbet." 

This letter of Andre roused the sympathies of Washington, 
and had he only been concerned, the prisoner would have been 
pardoned and released. But the interests of his country were at 
stake, and the sternness of justice demanded that private feelings 
should be sacrificed. Upon consulting his officers, on the pro- 
priety of Major Andre's request, to receive the death of a soldier, 
— to be shot — it was deemed necessary to deny it, and to make 
him an example. On the 2d of October, this unfortunate 
young man expired on the gallows, while foes and friends uni- 
versally lamented his untimely end. 

As a reward to Paulding, Williams, and Van Wert, for their 
virtuous and patriotick conduct. Congress voted to each of them 
an annuity of two hundred dollars and a silver medal, on one 
side of which, was a shield with this inscription — " fidelity," — 
and on the other, the following motto, " vincit amor patrice^^ 
— the love of country conquers. 

Arnold, the miserable wretch, whose machinations led to the 
melancholy fate Andre experienced, escaped to New-York, 
where, as the price of his dishonour, he received the commission 
of brigadier general, and the sum of ten thousand pounds ster^ 
ling. This last boon was the grand secret of Arnold's fall from 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 22S 

virtue ; his vanity and extravagance had led him into expenses 
which it was neither in the power nor will of congress to sup- 
port. He had involved himself in debt, from which he saw no 
hope of extricating himself; and his honour, therefore, was bar- 
tered for British gold. 

Section LVIII. Gen. Washington, having 
learned whither Arnold had fled, deemed it pos- 
sible still to take him, and to bring him to the 
just reward of his treachery. To accomplish 
an object so desirable, and, at the same time, in 
so doing, to save Andre, Washington devised a 
plan, which, although it ultimately failed, evinc- 
ed the capacity of his mind, and his unwearied 
ardour for his country's good. 

Having matured the plan, Washington sent to Major Lee to 
repair to head quarters, at Tappan, on the Hudson. " I have 
sent for you,'' said Gen. Washington, " in the expectation that 
you have some one in your corps, who is willing to undertake a 
dehcate and hazardous project. Whoever comes forward will 
confer great obligations upon me personally, and, in behalf of 
the United States, I will reward him amply. No time is to be 
lost ; he must proceed, if possible, to-night. I intend to seize 
Arnold, and save Andre." 

Major Lee named a sergeant-major of his corps, by the name 
of Champe — a native of Virginia, a man full of bone and mus- 
cle — with a countenance grave, thoughtful, and tachurn — of 
tried courage, and inflexible perseverance. 

Champe was sent for by Major Lee, and the plan proposed. 
This was for him to desert — to escape to New- York — to ap- 
pear friendly to the enemy — to watch Arnold, and, upon some 
fit opportunity, with the assistance of some one whom Champe 
could trust, to seize him, and conduct him to a place on the 
river, appointed, where boats should be in readiness to bear 
them away. 

Champe listened to the plan attentively — but, with the spirit 
of a man of honour and integrity, replied — ^^ that it was not 
danger nor difficulty, that deterred him from immediately ac- 
cepting the proposal, but the ignominy of desertion, and the 
hypocrisy of enlisting with the enemy P^ 

To these objections, Lee replied, that although he would ap- 
pear to desert, yet as he obeyed the call of his commander in 
chief, his departure could not be considered as criminal, and 
thatjj if he suffered in reputation, for a time, the matter would 



224 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

one day be explained to his credit. As to the second objection, 
it was urged, that to bring such a man as Arnold to justice — 
loaded with guilt as he was — and to save Andre— so young — 
so accomplished — so beloved — to achieve so much good in the 
cause of his country — was more than sufficient to balance a 
wrong, existing only in appearance. 

The objections of Champe were at length surmounted, and 
he accepted the service. It was now eleven o'clock at night. 
With his instructions in his pocket, the sergeant returned to 
camp, and, taking his cloak, valice, and orderly book, drew his 
horse from the picket and mounted, putting himself upon for- 
tune. 

Scarcely had half an hour elapsed, before Capt. Carnes, the offi- 
cer of the day, waited upon Lee, who was vainly attempting to 
rest, and informed him, that one of the patrol had fallen in with 
a dragoon, who, being challenged, put spurs to his horse and es- 
caped. Lee, hoping to conceal the flight of Champe, or at least 
to delay pursuit, complained of fatigue, and told the captain 
that the patrol had probably mistaken a countryman for a dra- 
goon. Carnes, however, was not thus to be quieted ; and he 
withdrew to assemble his corps. On examination, it was found 
that Champe was absent. The captain now returned, and ac- 
quainted Lee with the discovery, adding that he had detached a 
party to pursue the deserter, and begged the major's written or- 
ders. 

After making as much delay as practicable, without exciting 
suspicion, Lee delivers his orders — in which he directed the party 
to take Champe if possible. " Bring him alive," said he, " that 
he may suffer in the presence of the army ; but kill him if he 
resists, or if he escapes after being taken." 

A shower of rain fell soon after Champe's departure, which 
enabled the pursuing dragoons to take the trail of his horse, his 
shoes, in common with those of the horses of the army, being 
made in a peculiar form, and each having a private mark, which 
was to be seen in the path. 

Middleton, the leader of the pursuing party, left the camp a 
few minutes past twelve, so that Champe had the start of but 
little more than an hour — a period by far shorter than had been 
contemplated. During the night, the dragoons were often de- 
layed in the necessary halts to examine the road ; but, on the 
coming of morning, the impression of the horse's shoes was so 
apparent, that they pressed on with rapidity. Some miles above 
Bergen, a village three miles north of New- York, on the oppo 
site side of the Hudson, on ascending a hill, Champe was des- 
cried, not more than half a mile distant. Fortunately, Champe 



PERI0D:V....1775....1783....REV0LUTI0N. 225 

descried his pursuers at the same moment, and, conjecturing 
their object, put spurs to his horse, with the hope of escape. 

By taking a different road, Champe was, for a time, lost 
sight of — but, on approaching the river, he was again descried. 
Aware of his danger, he now lashed his valice, containing his 
clothes and orderly book, to his shoulders, and prepared him- 
self to plunge into the river, if necessary. Swift was his flight, 
and swift the pursuit. Middleton and his party were within a 
few hundred yards, when Champe threw himself from his horse 
and plunged into the river, calling aloud upon some British gal- 
leys, at no great distance, for help. A boat was instantly de- 
spatched to the sergeant''s assistance, and a tire commenced upon 
the pursuers. Champe was taken on board, and soon after car- 
ried to New-York, with a letter from the captain of the galley, 
stating the past scene, all of which he had witnessed. 

The pursuers having recovered the sergeant's horse and cloak, 
returned to camp, where they arrived about three o'clock the 
next day. On their appearance with the well known horse, the 
soldiers made the air resound with the acclamations that the 
scoundrel was killed. The agony of Lee, for a moment, was 
past description, lest the faithful, honourable, intrepid Champe 
had fallen. But the truth soon relieved his fears, and he repair- 
ed to Washington to impart to him the success, thus, far of his 
plan. 

Soon after the arrival of Champe in New-York, he was sent 
to Sir Henry Clinton, who treated him kindly, but detained him 
more than an hour in asking him questions, to answer some of 
which, without exciting suspicion, required all the art the ser- 
geant was master of. He succeeded, however, and Sir Henry 
gave him a couple of guineas, and recommended him to Arnold, 
who was wishing to procure American recrrits. Arnold re- 
ceived him kindly, and proposed to him t( )0*n his legion ; 
Champe, however, expressed his wish to retire fro.n war; but 
assured the general, that if he should change his mmd, he would 
enlist. 

Champe found means to communicate to Lee an account of 
his adventures ; but, unfortunately, he could not succeed in tak- 
ing Arnold, as was wished, before the execution of Andre. Ten 
days before Champe brought his project to a conclusion, Lee 
received from him his final communication, appointing the third 
subsequent night for a party of dragoons to meet him at Hobo- 
ken, opposite New- York, when he hoped to deliver Arnold to 
the officers. 

Champe had enlisted into Arnold's legion, from which time 
he had every opportunity, he could wish, to attend to the habits 
of the general. He discovered that it was his custom to return 



226 PERIOD V....1775....1783....11EVOLUTION. 

home about twelve every night, and that, previously to going te 
bed, he always visited the garden. During this visit, the con- 
spirators were to seize him, and, being prepared with a gag, 
they were to apply the same instantly. 

Adjoining the house in which Arnold resided, and in which 
it was designed to seize and gag him, Champe had taken of! 
several of the palings and replaced them, so that with ease, and 
witliout noise, he could readily open his way to the adjoining 
alley. Into this alley he intended to convey his prisoner, aided 
by his companion, one of two associates, who had been intro- 
duced by the friend, to whom Champe had been originally 
made known by letter from the commander in chief, and with 
whose aid and counsel, he had so far conducted the enterprise. 
His other associate was, with the boat, prepared at one of the 
wharves on the Hudson river, to receive the party. 

Champe and his friend intended to place themselves each 
under Arnold's shoulder, and thus to bear him through the most 
unfrequented alleys and streets to the boat, representing Arnold, 
in case of being questioned, as a drunken soldier, whom the}' 
were conveying to the guard-house. 

When arrived at the boat, the difficulties would be all sur- 
mounted, there being no danger nor obstacle in passing to 
the Jersey shore. These particulars, as soon as made known 
to Lee, were communicated to the commander in chief, who 
was highly gratified wiili the much desired intelligence. He 
desired Major Lee to meet Champe, and to take care that Ar- 
nold should not be hurt. 

The day arrived, and Lee, with a party of accoutered horses, 
(one for Arnold, one for the sergeant, and the third for his as- 
sociate, who was to assist in securing Arnold,) left the camp, 
never doubting the success of the enterprise, from the tenour of 
the last received communication. The party reached Hoboken 
about midnight, where they were concealed in the adjoining 
wood — Lee, with three dragoons, stationing himself near the 
shore of the river. — Hour after hour passed, but no boat ap- 
proached. 

At length the day broke, and the major retired to his party, 
and, with his led horses, returned to the camp, where he pro- 
ceeded to head quarters to inform the general of the much la- 
mented disappointment, as mortifying, as inexplicable. Wash- 
ington, having perused Champe's plan and communication, had 
indulged the presumption, that, at length, the object of his keen 
and constant pursuit was sure of execution, and did not dis- 
semble the joy which such a conviction produced. He was 
chagriped at the issuer and apprehended that his faithful ser- 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTrON. 227 

geant must have been detected in the .last scene ot his tedious 
and difficult enterprise. 

In a few days, Lee received an anonymous letter from 
Champers patron and friend, informing him, that on the day 
preceding the night fixed for the execution of the plot, Arnold 
had removed his quarters to another part of the town, to super- 
intend the embarkation of troops, preparing, as was rumoured, 
for an expedition to be directed by himself; and that the Ame- 
rican legion, consisting chiefly of American deserters, had been 
transferred from their barracks to one of the transports, it being 
apprehended that if left on shore, until the expedition was ready, 
many of them might desert. 

Thus it happened that John Champe, instead of crossing the 
Hudson that night, was safely deposited on board one of the fleet 
of transports, from whence he never departed, until the troops 
under Arnold landed in Virginia. Nor was he able to escape 
from the British army, until after the junction of Lord Corn- 
vvallis at Petersburg, when he deserted ; and, proceeding high 
up into Virginia, he passed into North Carolina, near the Saura 
towns, and, keeping in the friendly districts of that State, safely 
joined the army soon after it had passed the Congaree, in pur- 
suit of Lord Rawdon. 

His appearance excited extreme surprise among his former 
comrades, which was not a little increased, when they saw the 
cordial reception he met with from the late major, now Lieu-* 
tenant Col. Lee. His whole story was soon known to the corps, 
which re-produced the love and respect of officers and soldiers, 
heretofore invariably entertained for the sergeant, heightened by 
universal admiration of his late daring and arduous attempt. 

Champe was introduced to Gen. Greene, who very cheerfully 
complied with the promise made by the commander in chief, so 
far as in his power ; and, having provided the sergeant with a 
good horse and money for his journey, sent him to Gen. Wash- 
ington, who munificently anticipated every desire of the ser- 
geant, and presented him with a discharge from further service, 
lest he m.ight, in the vicissitudes of war, fall into the hands of 
the enemy, when, if reco^rnized, he was sure to die on a gibbet. 

We ahull only ndd, respt cting the after Hfe of this interesting 
adventurer, that when Gen. Washington was called by President 
Adams, in 1798, to the command of the army, prepared to de- 
fend the country, against French hostility, he sent to Lieuten- 
ant Col. Lee, to inquire for Champe ; being determined to bring 
him into the field at the head of a company of infantry. Lee 
sent to Loudon county, Virginia, where Champe settled after his 



228 PERIOD V....ir75....1783....REVOLUTION 

discharge from the army ; when he learned that tlie gallant sol- 
dier had removed to Kentucky; where he soon after died.* 

Section LIX. The year 1781 opened with 
an event extremely afflicting to Gen. Washing- 
ton, and which, for a time, seriously endangered 
the American army. This was the revolt of 
the whole Pennsylvania line of troops, at Mor- 
ris town, to the number of one thousand three 
hundred. The cause of this mutiny was want 
of pay, clothing, and provisions. Upon exami- 
nation of the grievances of the troops, by a com- 
mittee from congress, their complaints were con- 
sidered to be founded in justice. Upon their 
being redressed, the troops, whose time of ser- 
vice had expired, returned home, and the rest 
cheerfully repaired again to camp. 

Gen. Wayne, who commanded these troops, and who was 
greatly respected by them, used every exertion to quiet them, 
but in vain. In the ardour of remonstrance with them, he cock- 
ed his pistol, and turned it towards them. Instantlj^, an hun- 
dred bayonets were directed towards him, and the men cried 
out, ^' we love you, we respect you ; but you are a dead man, if 
you fire. Do not mistake us ; we are not going to the enemy. 
On the contrary, were they now to come out, j^ou should see us 
fight under your orders, with as much resolution and alacrity as 
ever." 

Leaving the camp, the mutineers proceeded in a body to 
Princeton. Thither, Sir Henry Clinton, who had heard of the 
revolt, sent agents to induce them to come over to the British, 
with the promise of large rewards. 

But these soldiers loved their country's cause too well to listen 
to proposals so reproachful. They were suffering privations 
which could no longer be sustained; but they spurned, with 
disdain, the ofter of the enemy. They also seized the agents of 
the Brhish, and nobly delivered them up to Gen. Wayne to be 
treated as spies. 

Section hX, In the midst of these troubles, 
arising from discontents of the troops, news ar- 



♦ Lee's Memoirs. 



PERIOD V'....1775....l783....REVOLUTION. 2^9 

lived of greatclepredationsinVirginia, by Arnold, 
who had left New-York for the south, witii one 
thousand six hundred men, and a number of arm- 
ed vessels. Extensive outrages were committed 
by these troops in that part of the country. 
Large quantities of tobacco, salt, rum, &c. were 
destroyed. In this manner did Arnold show trib 
change of spirit, which had taken place in his 
breast, and his fidelity to his new engagements. 

Upon receiving news of these depredations, at 
the request of Gen. Washington, a French 
squadron, from Rhode-Island, was sent to cut 
off Arnold's retreat. Ten of his vessels were de- 
stroyed, and a forty-four gun ship was captured. 
Shortly after this, an engagement took place off 
the Capes of Virginia, between the French and 
English squadrons, which terminated so far to 
the advantage of the English, that Arnold was 
saved from imminent danger of falhng into the 
hands of his exasperated countrymen. 

Section LXI. After the unfortunate battle al 
Camden, August 16th, 1780, congress thought 
proper to remove Gen. Gates, and to appoint 
Gen. Greene in his place. In December, 1780, 
Greene assumed the command. The army at 
this time was reduced to two thousand men, 
more than half of whom were militia, and all 
were miserably fed and clothed. 

With this force. Gen. Greene took the field, 
against a superiour regular force, flushed with 
recessive victories through a whole campaign. 
Soon after taking the command, he divided his 
force, and, with one part, sent Gen. Morgan to 
the western extremity of South Carolina. 

At this time, Lord Cornwallis was nearly pre- 
pared to invade North Carolina. Unwilling to 



230 FJERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

leave such an enemy as Morgan in his rear, he 
despatched Col. Tarieton to engage Gen. Mor- 
gan, and " to push him to the utmost." 

Section LXII. January 17th, 1781, these two 
detachments met, when was fought the spirited 
battle of the Cowpens, in which the American 
arms signally triumphed. 

In this memorable battle, the British lost upwards of one hun- 
dred killed, among whom were ten commissioned officers, and 
two hundred wounded. More than five hundred prisoners fell 
into the hands of the Americans, besides two pieces of artillery, 
twelve standards, eight hundred muskets, thirty-five baggage 
waggons, one hundred dragoon horses ; the loss of the Ameri- 
cans was no more than twelve killed and sixty wounded. 

The victory of the Cowpens must be reckoned as one of the 
most brilliant achieved during the revolutionary war. The 
force of Morgan hardly amounted to five hundred, while that of 
his adversary exceeded one thousand. Morgan's brigade were 
principally militia, while Tarieton commanded the flower of th«i 
British army. 

Section LXIII. Upon receiving the intelli- 
gence of Tarleton's defeat, Cornwallis aban- 
doned the invasion of North Carolina for the 
present, and marched in pursuit of Gen. Morgan. 

Greene, suspecting his intentions, hastened 
with his army to join Morgan. This junction 
was at length effected, at Guilford Court-House, 
after a fatiguing march, in which Cornwallis 
nearly overtook him, and was prevented only by 
the obstruction of a river. 

After his junction with Morgan, Gen. Greene, 
v/ith his troops and baggage, crossed the river 
Dan, and entered Virginia, again narrowly es- 
caping the British, who were in close pursuit. 

Section LXIV. Satisfied with having driven 
Greene from North Carolina, Cornwallis retir- 
ed to Hillsborough, where, erecting the royal 
standard, he issued his proclamation, inviting 
the loyalists to join him, Mauy accepted his in- 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 231 

vitation. At the same time, he despatched 
Tarleton, with four hundred and fifty men, to se- 
cure the countenance of a body of loyalists, col- 
lected between the Hawe and Deep rivers. 

Section LXV. Apprehensive of Tar^eton^s 
success, Gen. Greene, on the 18th of February, 
re-crossed the Dan into Carolina, and despatch- 
ed Generals Pickens and Lee to watch the move- 
ments of the enemy. These officers were un- 
able to bring Tarleton to an engagement. Gen. 
Greene, having now received a reinforcement, 
making his army four thousand five hundred 
strong, concentrated his forces, and directed his 
march towards Guilford Court-House, whither 
Lord Cornwallis had retired. 

Here, on the 8th of March, a general engage- 
ment took place, in which victory, after alter- 
nately passing to the banners of each army, final- 
ly decided in favour of the British. 

The British loss, in this battle, exceeded five hundred in kill- 
ed and wounded, among whom were several of the most distin- 
guished officers, llie American loss was about four hundred, 
in killed and wounded, of which more than three fourths fell 
upon the continentals. Though the numerical force ol General 
Greene nearly doubled that of Cornwallis, yet, when we con- 
sider the difference between these forces, the shameful conduct 
of the North Carolina militia, who fled at the first fire, the de- 
sertion of the second Maryland regiment, and that a body of 
reserve was not brought into action, it will appear, that our 
numbers, actually engaged, but little exceeded that of the ene- 
my. 

Section LXVI. Notwithstanding the issue of 
the above battle, Gen. Greene took the bold re- 
solution of leading back his forces to South Car- 
olina, and of attacking the enemies' strong post 
at Camden, in that State. Accordingly, on the 
9th of April, he put his troops in motion, and on 
the 20th., encamped at Logtown, within sight ©f 



232 PERIOP V....l775....1783....REVOLUTrON. 

the enemies' works. Lord Rawdon, at this time, 
held the command of Camden, and had a force 
of only nine hundred men. The army of Gen. 
Greene — a detachment having been made for 
another expedition under Gen. Lee — amounted 
scarcely to twelve hundred men of all classes. 

On the 25th, Lord Rawdon drew out his for- 
ces, and the two armies engaged. For a season, 
victory seemed inclined to the Americans, but, 
in the issue, Gen. Greene found himself obliged 
to retreat. 

The American loss in killed, wounded, and missing, was two 
h«ndr<^d and sixty-eight ; thp English loss was nearly equal, 
TJie failure of the victory, in this buttle, was not attributable, as 
in some cases, to the flight of the militia, when danger had 
scarcely begun — but Gen. Greene experienced the mortification 
of seeing a legiment of veterans give way to an inferiour force, 
when every circumstance was in their favour — the very regi- 
ment too, which, at the battle of the Cowpens, behaved with 
such heroick bravery. 

Section LXVIL Although the British arms 
gained the victory of Camden, the result of 
the whole was favourable to the American cause. 
Gen. Lee, with a detachment despatched for that 
purpose, while Greene was marching against 
Camden, took possession of an important post 
at Mottes, near the confluence of the Congaree 
and Santee rivers. This auspicious event was 
followed by the evacuation of Camden, by Lord 
Rawdon, and of the whole line of British posts, 
with the exception of Ninety-Six and Charles- 
ton. 

Section LXVIIL Ninety-Six, one hundred 
and forty-seven miles north-west from Charles- 
ton, was garrisoned by five hundred and sixty 
men. Against this post, after the battle of Cam- 
den, Gen. Greene took up his march, and, on 
the 22d of Mav, sat down before it. Soon aft^er 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. tZS 

the siege of it had been commenced, intelligence 
arrived that Lord Rawdon had been reinforced 
by troops from Ireland, and was on his march 
with two thousand men for its relief. Greene 
now determined upon an assault, but in this he 
failed, with a loss of one hundred and fifty men. 

Soon after his arrival at Ninety Six, Lord 
Rawdon deemed it expedient to evacuate this 
post. Retiring himself to Charleston, his army 
encamped at the Eutaw Springs, forty miles 
from Charleston. 

Section LXIX. Gen. Greene, having retired 
to the high hills of Santee, to spend the hot and 
sickly season, in September approached the 
enemy at the Eutaw Springs. On the morning 
of the 8th, he advanced upon him, and the bat- 
tle between the two armies became general. 
The contest was sustained with equal bravery 
on both sides — victory seeming to decide in fa- 
vour of neither. 

The British lost in killed, wounded, and prisoners, about one 
thousand one hundred. The loss of the Americans was five 
hundred and fifty-five. 

Section LXX. The battle at the Eutaw 
Springs was the last general action that took 
place in South Carolina, and nearly finished the 
war in that quarter. The enemy now retired to 
Charleston. 

Thus closed the campaign of 1781, in South Carolina. Few 
commanders have ever had greater difficuhres to encounter than 
General Greene; and few have ever, with the same means, 
accomplished so much. Though never so decisively victorious, 
yet the battles which he fought, either from necessity or choice, 
were always so well managed as to result to his advantage. 

Not unmindful of his eminent services, Congi'ess presented 
him with a British standard, and a gold medal, emblematical of 
the actiori at the Eutaw Springs, which restored a sister State to 
the American Union. 

Section LXXL After the battle of Guilford, 

20* 



234 PERIOD....V....m5....1783....REVOLUTION 

between Greene and Cornwallis, noticed above, 
the latter, leaving South Carolina in charge of 
Lord Rawdon, commenced his march towards 
Petersburg, in Virginia, where he arrived on the 
20th of May. Having received several rein- 
forcements, he found himself with an army of 
eight thousand, and indulged the pleasing anti- 
cipations that Virginia would soon be made to 
yield to his arms. 

Early in the spring, Gen. Washington had de- 
tached the Marquis de la Fayette, with three 
thousand men, to co-operate with the French 
fleet, in Virginia, in the capture of Arnold, who 
was committing depredations in that State, On 
the failure of this expedition, La Fayette march- 
ed back as far as the head of Elk river. — Here 
lie received orders to return to Virginia to op- 
pose the British. On his return, hearing of the 
advance of Cornwallis, towards Petersburg, 
twenty miles below Richmond, he hastened his 
inarch to prevent, if possible, the junction of 
Cornwalhs, with a reinforcement, under Gen. 
Phillips. In this, however, he failed. 

The junction being effected at Petersburg, 
Cornwallis moved towards James' river, which 
he crossed, with the intention of forcing the 
marquis to a battle. 

Prudence forbad the marquis risking an en- 
gagement, with an enemy of more than twice 
his force. He thetefore retreated, and, not- 
withstanding the uncommon efforts of his lord* 
ship to prevent it, he effected a junction with 
Gen. Wayne, who had been despatched by Wa- 
shington, with eight hundred Pennsylvania mi- 
litia, to his assistance. After this reinforce- 
ment, the disproportion between himself and 



PERIOD V....1775 ...1783....REVOLUTION. 230 

his adversary was still too great to permit him 
to think of battle. He continued his retreat, 
therefore, displaying, in all his manoeuvres, the 
highest prudence. 

Section LXXII. While these things were 
transpiring in Virginia, matters of high moment 
seemed to be in agitation in the north, which, 
not long after, were fully developed. 

Early in May, 1781. a plan of the whole cam- 
paign had been arranged by Gen. Washington, 
in consultation, at Wethersfield, Connecticut, 
with Generals Knox and Du Portail, on the part 
of the Americans, and Count de Rochambeau, 
on the part of France. The grand project of 
the season w^as to lay siege to New- York, in 
concert with a French fleet, expected on the 
coast in August. 

In the prosecution of this plan, the French 
troops were marched from Rhode-Island, and 
joined Gen. Washington, who had concentrated 
his forces at Kingsbridge, fifteen miles above 
New-York. All things were preparing for a 
vigorous siege, and, towards this strongest hold 
of the enemy, the eyes of all were intently direct- 
ed. 

In this posture of things, letters addressed to 
Gen. Washington, informed him that the ex- 
pected French fleet, under the Count de Grasse, 
would soon arrive in the Chesapeake, and that 
this, instead of New- York, was the place of its 
destmation. 

Disappointed in not having the co-operation 
of such a force ; disappointed also in not receiv- 
ing the full quota of militia, which had been or- 
dered from New-England and New-Jersey; 
aixJ, moreover, learning that Clinton had been 



2S6 PERIOD V....1775. ..l783....REVOLtJtION. 

reinforced in New-York., by the arrival of three 
thousand Germans ; Washington was induced 
to change the plan of op(3rations, and to direct 
his attention to Corn wal lis, who, from pursuing 
the Marquis de hi Fayette, had retired to York- 
town, near the mouth of York river, and had 
fortified that place. 

Section LXXIII. Having decided upon this 
measure, on the 19th of July he drew off his 
forces, and commenced his march, at the same 
time strongly impressing Clinton, by every art 
in his powei*, that an attack would soon be made 
upon New-York. So successfully was this de- 
ception practised, that Washington was some dis- 
tance on his way towards Virginia, before Clin- 
ton suspected that his object was any other than 
to draw him from New-York, to fight him in the 
field, with superiour forces. 

Having halted at Philadelphia a few days, the 
army continued its march to the head of Elk 
river, whence it embarked for Williamsburg, 
then the head quarters of the Marquis de la 
Fayette, where it arrived September 25th. 

Gen. Washington and Count de Rochambeau 
preceded the troops ten days, and, to their 
great joy, found that the Count de Grasse had 
entered the Capes on the 30th of the preceding 
month, with twenty-eight sail, and three thou- 
sand troops. 

On the arrival of these two genera.ls at Wil- 
liamsburg, a vessel was in readiness to convey 
them on board the Ville de Paris, the flag-ship 
of the Count de Grasse, where a council was 
held to determine on future operations. 

Section LXXIV. These being settled, the 
oooibined armies, amounting to twelve thousand 



PERIOD V....l775....17S3,...REyOLUTION, 227 

men, moved upon Yorktown and Gloucester, 
September 30th, and the Count de Grasse, with 
his fleet, proceeded up to the mouth of York 
river, to prevent Cornwallis either from retreat- 
ing, or receiving assistance. 

Yorktown is a small village on the south side of York river, 
whose southern banks are high, and in whose waters a ship of 
the line may ride in safety. Gloucester Point is a piece of land 
on the opposite shore, projecting far into the river. Both these 
posts were occupied by Cornwallis — the main body of the array 
being at York, under the immediate command of his lordship, 
and a detachment of six hundred at Gloucester point, under 
Lieut. Col. Tarleton. 

On the 6th of October, Washington's heavy 
ordnance, &c. arrived, and the siege was com- 
menced in form. Seldom, if ever, during the 
revolutionary struggle, did the American com- 
mander in chief, or his troops, appear before the 
enemy with more cool determination, or pursue 
him with more persevering ardour, than at the 
siege of Yorktown. With the fall of Cornwal- 
lis, it was perceived that the hopes of Great Bri- 
tain, successfully to maintain the contest, must 
nearly expire ; with this in prospect, there was 
no wavering of purpose, and no intermission of 
toil. 

On the 19th of October, the memorable victo- 
ry over Cornwallis was achieved, and his whole 
army was surrendered, amounting to more than 
seven thousand prisoners of war, together with 
a park of artillery of one hundred and sixty piec- 
es, the greater part of which were brass. 

Articles of capitulation being mutually signed and ratified. 
Gen. Lincoln was appointed, by the commander in chief, to re- 
ceive the submission of the royal army, in the.same manner, in 
which, eighteen months before, Cornwallis had received thai of 
the Americans at Charleston. 

The spectacle is represented as having been impressive and 
atfecting. The road through which the captive army marched 



238 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

was lined with spectators, French and American. On one side, 
the commander in chief, surrounded with his suite, and the Ame- 
rican staff, took his station ; on the other side, opposite to him, 
was the Count de Rochambeau, in the like manner attended. 

The captive army approached, moving slowly in column, 
with grace and precision. IJniversal silence was observed amidst 
the vast concourse, and the utmost decency prevailed ; exhibit- 
ing an awful sense of the vicissitudes of human life, mingled with 
eommisseration for the unhappy 

Every eye was now turned, searching for the British com- 
mander in chief, anxious to look at the man, heretofore so much 
the object of their dread. All were disappointed. Cornwallis, 
unable to bear up against the humiliation of marching at the 
Iiead of his garrison, constituted Gen. O'Hara his representa- 
tive, on the. occasion. 

The post of Gloucester, falling with that of York, was deliv- 
ered up the same day, by Lieut. Col. Tarleton. 

At the termination of the siege, the besieging army amounted 
to sixteen thousand. The British force was put down at seven 
thousand one hundred and seven, of which only four thousand 
and seven rank and file are stated to have been fit for duty. 

Section LXXV. Five days after the surrender 
of Cornwallis, Sir Henry Clinton made his ap- 
pearance off the Capes of Virginia with a rein- 
forcement of seven thousand men ; but, receiv- 
ing intelligence of his lordship's fate, he re- 
turned to New- York. 

Cornwallis, in his despatclies to Sir Henry, more than hinted 
that his fall had been produced by a too firm rehance on pro- 
mises, that no pains were taken to fulfil Clinton had promis- 
ed Cornwallis that this auxiliary force should leave New-York 
on the 5th of October, but for reasons never explained, it did 
not sail until the 19th, the very day that decided the fate of the 
army. 

Section LXXVI. Nothing could exceed the 
joy of the American people, at this great and 
important victory, over Lord Cornwallis. Ex- 
ultation broke forth from one extremity of the 
country to the other. The remembrance of the 
past gave place in all minds to the most brilliant 
hopes. Tt wRs confidently anticipated, that the 
affair of Yorktown would rapidly hasten the ac- 



PERIOD V....l77Sf....l783....TlErOLUTfON, 239 

knowledgment of American Independence — ait 
event, for which the people had been toiling and 
bleeding through so many campaigns. 

In all parts of the United States, solemn festivals and rejoic- 
ings celebrated the triumph of American fortune. The names 
of Washington, Rochambeau, De Grasse, and La Fayette, re- 
sounded every where. To the unanimous acclaim of the peo- 
ple, congress joined the authority of its resohes. It addressed 
thanks to the generals, ofTiceri, and soldiers — presented British 
colours — ordered the erection of a n'arble column—and went in 
procession to church, to render publick thanksgiving to God for 
the recent victory. The 30th of December was appoinied as a 
day of national thanksgiving. 

Section LXXVII. While the combined ar- 
mies were advancing to the siege of Yorktuwn, 
an excursion was made from New-York, by Gen. 
Arnold, against New-London, in his native state. 
The object of this expedition seems to have been, 
to draw away a part of the American forces; 
Sir Henry Clinton knowing but too well, that if 
they were left at liberty to push the siege of 
Yorktown, the blockaded army must inevitably 
surrender. 

This expedition was signalized by the great- 
est atrocities. Fort Trumbull, qn the west, and 
Fort Griswold, on the east side of the river 
Thames, below New-London, were taken, and 
the greater part of that town was burnt* 

At Fort Trumh'jil, little or no resistance was made ; but Fori 
Griswcld was df>feuded for a time, with great bravery and reso- 
lution. Aficr the fort was carried, a Britisli officer entering, in- 
quired who conrmanded. Col. Ledyard answered, "I did, but 
you do pow'' — at i\\(^. same time presenting his sword. The 
officer immediately ]>lun^ed the sword into his bosom. A gene- 
ral m^-^sacre now took place, as well of those who surrendered as 
of those who resisted, ^rhich continued until nearly all the garri- 
son were either killed or wouiided. Sixty dwelling houses, and 
eighty-four stores in New-London, were reduced to ashes. 

Section LXXVIIL The fall of Cornwallis 
may be considered as substantially closing the 



240 PERIOD V....1775....17S3....REVOLUTION. 

war. A few posts of importance were still held 
by the British — New-York, Charleston, an^i Sa- 
vannah — but all other parts of the country, 
which they had possessed, were recovered into 
the power of congress. A few skirmishes alone 
indicated the continuance of war. 

A part of the French army, soon after the cap 
ture of Cornwallis, re-embarked, and Count de 
Grasse sailed for the West Indies. Count Ro- 
chambeau cantoned his army for the winter, 
1782, in Virginia, and the main body of the 
Americans returned, by the way of the Chesa- 
peake, to their former position on the Hudson. 

Section hXXlX, From the 12th of December, 
1781, to the 4th of March, 1782, motion after 
motion was made in the British Parliament for 
putting an end to the war in America. On this 
latter day, the commons resolved " that the 
house would consider as enemies to his majesty 
and to the country, all those who should advise, 
or attempt the further prosecution of offensive 
war, on the continent of North America." 

Section LXXX. On the same day, the com- 
mand of his majesty's forces in America was 
taken from Sir Henry Clinton, and given to Sir 
Guy Carleton, who was instructed to promote 
the wishes of Great Britain, for an accommoda- 
tion with the United States. 

In accordance with these instructions, Sir 
Guy Carleton endeavoured to open a corres- 
pondence with congress, and with this view sent 
to Gen. Washington to solicit a passport for his 
secretary. But this was refused, since con- 
gress would enter into no negociations but in 
concert with his most Christian Majesty. 

Section LXXXI. The French court, on re- 



^ PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 241 

ceiving intelligence of the surrender of Corn- 
wallis, pressed upon congress the appointment 
of commissioners for negotiating peace with 
Great Britain. Accordingly, John Adams, Ben- 
jamin Franklin, John Jay, and Henry Laurens, 
were appointed. These commissioners met 
Mr. Fitzherbet and Mr. Oswald, on the part of 
Great Britain, at Paris, and provisional articles 
of peace between the two countries were signed, 
November 30th, 1782. The definitive treaty 
was signed on the 30th of September, 1 783. 

Although the definitive treaty was not signed 
until September, there had been no act of hos- 
tility between the two armies, and a state of 
peace had actually existed from the commence- 
ment of the year 1783. A formal proclamation 
of the cessation of hostilities was made through 
the army on the 19th of April, — Savannah was 
evacuated in July, New- York, in November, and 
Charleston, in the following month. 

Section LXXXII. The third of November ' 
was fixed upon by congress, for disbanding the 
army of the United States. On the day previous, 
Washington issued his farewell orders, and bid 
an afiectionate adieu to the soldiers, who had 
fought and bled by his side. 

After mentioning the trying times through which he had 
passed, and the unexampled patience which, under every cir- 
cumstance of sufferiu;^, his army had evinced, he passed to the 
glorious prospects c ening before them, and their country — and 
then bade thein adieu in the following words: " Being now to 
conclude these his last publick orders, to take his ultimate leave 
in a short time of the military character, and to bid a final adieu 
to the armies he has so long had the lionour to comma* ' he 
can only again offer in their behalf, his recommendations to 
tlieir g^rateful country, and his prayer to the God of armies. 

" May ample justice be done them here, and may tho 
choice-;'. lavour, both here and hereafter, attt*nd those, who. 
under the divine auspices, h we secured innumerable blessings 

21 



242 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUT10N. 

for others! With th*^se wishes, and this benediction, the com- 
mander in chief is about to retire from service. The curtain of 
separation will soon be drawn, and the mihtary scene to him 

will be closed for ever." 

Section LXXXIII. Soon after taking leave 
of the army. Gen. Washington was called to the 
still more painful hour of separation from his 
oflicers, greatly endeared to him by a long series 
of commori sufferings and dangers. 

The officers having previously assembled in New- York for 
the purpose, Gen. Washington now joined them, and caUing for 
a glass of wine, thus addressed them : " With a heart full of 
love and gratitude, I now take my leave of you. I most de- 
voutly wish that your latter days may be as prosperous and 
happy, as your former ones have been glorious and honour- 
able.'' * 

Having thus affectionately addressed them, he now took each 
by the hand and bade him farewell. Followed by them to the 
side of the Hudson, he entered a barge, and, while tears rolled 
down his cheeks, he turned towards the companions of his 
glory, and bade them a silent adieu. 

Section LXXXIV. December 23, Washing- 
ton appeared in the hall of congress, and re- 
signed to them the commission which they had 
given him, as commander in chief of the armies 
of the United States. 

After having spoken of the accomplishment of his wishes 
and exertions, in the independence of his country, and com- 
mended his officers and soldiers to Congress, he concluded as 
follows : 

'^ 1 consider it an indispensable duty to close the last solemn 
act of my official life, by commending the interests of our dear- 
est country to the protection of Almighty God, and those who 
have the superintendence of them to his holy keeping. 

" Having now finished the work assigned me, I retire from 
the gr 'at theatre of action ; and, bidding an affectionate fare- 
well t< this august body, under whose orders I have long acted, 
I here offer my commission, and take my leave of all the em- 
ployments of publick life." 

Section LXXXV. Upon accepting his com- 
mission, congress, through their president, ex- 
pressed in glowing L'^uguage to Washington, 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 243 

their high sense of his wisdom and energy, in 
conducting the war to so happy a termination, 
and invoked the choicest blessings upon his 
future life. 

President Mifflin concluded as follows: "We join you in 
commending the interests of our dearest country to the protec- 
tion of Almighty God, beseeching Him to dispose the hearts and 
minds of its citizens to improve the opportunity afforded them 
of becoming a happy and respectable nation. And for you, we 
address to Him our earnest prayers, that a life so beloved, may 
be fostered with all His care : that your days may be as happy 
as they have been illustrious ; and that He wili finally give you 
that reward which this world cannot give.*' 

A profound silence now pervaded the assem- 
bly. The grandeur of the scene, the recol- 
lection of the past, the felicity of the present, 
and the hopes of the future, crowded fast upon 
all, while they united in invoking blessings upon 
the man, who, under God, had achieved so 
much, and who now, in the character of a mere 
citizen^ was hastening to a long desired repose 
at his seat, at Mount Vernon, in Virginia. 



Section LXXXVI. ^UXintXU. At the 

commencement of the revolution, the colonists 
of America were a mass of husbandmen, mer- 
chants, mechanicks, and fishermen, who were 
occupied in the ordinary avocations of their re- 
spective callings, and were entitled to the 
appellation of a sober, honest, and industrious 
set of people. Being, however, under the con- 
trol of a country, whose jealousies were early 
and strongly enlisted against them, and which, 
therefore, was eager to repress every attempt, 
on their part, to rise, they had comparatively 



244 PERIOD r...J775....l783....REVOLUTION. 

little scope or encouragement, for exertion and 
enterprise. 

But, when the struggle for independence 
began, the case was altered. New fields for ex- 
ertion were opened, and new and still stronger 
impulses actuated their bosoms. A great 
change was suddenly wrought in the American 
people, and a vast expansion of character took^ 
place. Those who were before only known in 
the humble sphere of peaceful occupation, soon 
.shone forth in the cabinet or in the field, fully 
qualified to cope with the trained generals and 
statesmen of Europe. 

But, although the revolution caused such an 
expansion of character in the American people, 
and called forth the most striking patriotism 
among all classes, it introduced, at the same 
tmie, greater looseness of manners and morals. 
An army alwavs carries deep vices in its train, 
and communicates its corruption to society 
around it. Besides this, the failure of publick 
credit so far put it out of the power of individuals 
to perform private engagements, that the breach 
of them became common, and, at length, was 
scarcely disgraceful. That high sense of in- 
tegrity, which had extensively existed before, 
was thus exchanged for more loose and slippery 
notions of honesty and honour. 

On the whqle, says Dr. Ramsay, who wrote soon after the 
close of this period, " the literary, political, and military talents 
of the United States, have been improved by the revolution, but 
dieir moral character is inferiour to what it formerly was. So 
great is the change for the worse," continues he, " that the 
friends of publick order are loudly called upon to exert their ut- 
most abilities, in extirpating the vicious principles and habits, 
which have taken deep root during the late convulsions." 



fERIOn %\.. J775....1783.,..11EVOLXJT10N. 245 

SectionhXXXYlL UelffliOtl.* During the 
revolution, the colonies being all united in one 
cause — a congress being assembled from all 
parts of America — and more frequent inter- 
course between ditFerent parts of the country 
being promoted by the shifting of the armies — 
local prejudices and sectarian asperities were 
.obliterated ; religious controversy was sus- 
pended ; and bigotry softened. That spirit of 
intolerance, which had marked some portions of 
the country, was nearly done away. 

But, for these advantages, the revolution 
brought with it great disadvantages to religion 
in general. The atheistical philosophy, which 
had been spread over France, and which would 
involve the whole subject of religion in the 
gloomy mists of skepticism — which acknow- 
ledges no distinction between right and wrong, 
and considers a future existence as a dreum, 
that may or may not be realized — was thickly 
sown in the American army, by the French ; 
and, uniting with the infidelity, which before had 
taken root in the country, produced a serious 
declension in the tone of religious feelings, 
among the American people. 

In addition to this, religious institutions during the war, were 
much neglected ; churches were demolished, or converted into 
barracks ; publick worship was often suspended ; and the cler- 
gy suffered severely, from the reduction of their salaries, caused 
by the depreciation of the circulating medium. 



* Dr. Ramsay, in classing those persons, in America, who were in fa- 
vour, and those who were opposed, to the revolution, notices among the 
former, the Irish emigrants generally; the more enlightened Germans; the 
Presbyterians, and Independents ; the opulent slave-holders, in the southern 
States; and generally, the young, the ardent, the ambitious, and the enter- 
prising, throughout the country Among those who were opposed to the 
revolution, were the Scotch emigraiits, Qjuakers, Episcopalians, many old 
men, and most of the rich, in the eastern and middle States. 

21* 



246 PERIOD V....1775....1783....REVOLUTION. 

Section LXXXVIII. SraJTf atlJ ©Dins 
lU^ttC* During the war of the revolution, 
the commerce of the United States was inter- 
rupted, not only with Great Britain, but, in a 
great measure, with the rest of the world. The 
greater part of the shipping, belonging to the 
country, was destroyed by the enemy, or 
perished by a natural process of decay. 

Our coasts were so lined with British cruisers, as to render 
navigation too hazardous to be pursued to any considerable ex- 
tent. Some private( rs, however, were fitted out, which suc- 
ceeded in capturing several valuable prizes, on board of which 
were arms, and other munitions of war. During the last three 
years of the war, an illicit trade to Spanish America was car- 
ried on, but it was extremely limited. 

Section LXXXIX. ^QXitliltMXt^ Agri- 
culture was greatly interrupted during this 
period, by the withdrawing of labourers to the 
camp — by the want of encouragement, fur- 
nished by exportation, and by the distractions 
which disturbed all the occupations of society. 

The army often suffered for the means of subsistence, and the 
officers were sometimes forced to compel the inhabitants to fur- 
nish the soldiers food, in sufficient quantities to prevent their 
suffering. 

Section XC. mtU au^ M^MUt^ttUXtU. 

The trade with England, during this period, 
being interrupted by the war, the people of the 
United States were compelled to manufacture 
for themselves. Encouragement was given to 
all necessary manufactures, and the zeal, inge- 
nuity, and industry of the people, furnished the 
country with articles of prime necessity, and, in a 
measure, supplied the place of a foreign market. 
Such was the progress in arts and manufactures, 
during the period, that, after the return of peace, 
when an uninterrupted intercourse with England 
was again opened, some articles* which before 



PERIOD V....1775....1783....REYOLUTION. 247 

were imported altogether, were found so well, 
and so abundantly manufactured at home, that 
their importation was stopped. 

Section XCL |iopUlatlOn* The increase 
of the people of the United States, during this 
period, was small. Few, if any, emigrants ar- 
rived in the country. Many of the inhabitants 
were slain in battle, and thousands of that class 
called tories, left the land, who never returned. 
Perhaps we may fairly estimate the inhabitants 
of the country, about the close of this period, 
1784, at three millions two hundred and fifty 
thousand. 

Section XCII. ^HUtatiOM^ The interests 
of education suffered in common with other 
kindred interests, during the war. In several 
colleges, the course of instruction was, for a 
season, suspended ; the hall was exchanged by 
the students for the camp, and the gown for the 
sword and epaulette. 

Towards the conclusion of the war, two colleges were found- 
ed — one in Maryland, in 1782, by the name of Washington 
college ; the other, in 1783, in Pennsylvania, which received 
the name of Dickinson college. The writer, whom we have 
quoted above, estimates the whole number of colleges and 
academies in the United States, at the close of this period, at 
thirty-six. 

XCIII. The American Revolution is doubtless the most in- 
teresting event in the pages of modern history Changes 
equally great, and convulsions equally violent, have often taken 
place ; and the history of man tells us of many instances, in 
which oppression, urged beyond endurance, has called fi[)rth 
the spirit of successful and triumphant resistance. But, in the 
event before us, we see feeble colonies, without an army — with- 
out a navy — without an established government — without a 
revenue — without munitions of war — without fortifications, 
boldly stepping forth to meet the veteran armies of a proud, 



248 PERIOD V,...1775....1783....REVOLt7TlON. 

powerful, and vindictive enemy. We see these colonies amidst 
want, poverty, and misfortune — supported by the pervadinj 
spirit of liberty, and guided by the good hand of Heaven — for 
nearly eight years sustaining the weight of a cruel conflict, upon 
their own soil. We see them at length victorious; their ene- 
mies sullenly retire from their shores, and these humble colonies 
stand forth enrolled on the page of history — a free, sovereign, 
and independent nation. Nor is this all. We see a wise gov- 
ernment springing up from the blood that was spilt, and, down 
to our own time, shedding the choicest political blessings upon 
several millions of people ! 

What nation can dwell with more just satisfaction upon its 
annals, than ours ? Almost all others trace their foundation to 
some ambitious and bloody conquerer, who sought only, by en- 
slaving others, to aggrandize himself Our independence was 
won by the people, who fought for the natural rights of man. 
Other nations have left their annals stained with the crimes of 
their people and princes ; ours shines with the glowing traces 
of patriotism, constancy, and courage, amidst every rank of 
life, and every grade of office. 

Whenever we advert to this portion of our history, and re- 
view it, as we well may with patriotick interest, let us not forget 
the gratitude we owe, as well to those who " fought, and bled, 
and died" for us, as that benignant Providence, who stayed the 
proud waves of British tyranny. 

Let us also gather political wisdom from the American revo- 
lution. It has taught the world, emphatically, that oppression 
tends to weaken and destroy the power of the oppressor ; that 
a people united in the cause of liberty are invincible by those 
who would enslave them ; and that Heaven will ever frown 
upon the cause of injustice, and ultimately grant success to those 
who oppose it. 



iHLii:.^T'ii)]iir 



IT KILTJKB .^' TA.'ll' E »S 










UNITED STATES. 



DISTINGUISHED FOR THE FORMATIOlvf AND ESTAB- 
LISHMENT OF THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION, 

Extending from the dishanding of the army. 
1783, to the inaugvratmn of George Wash- 
ington^ as president of the United States, 
under the Federal Co}istitution, 1789. 

Section 1. During the revolutionary war, the 
American people looked forward to a state of 
peace, independence, and self-government, as 
almost necessarily ensuring every possible bless- 
ing. A short time was sufficient, however, to 
demonstrate that something, not yet possessed 
was necessary to realize the private and publick 
prosperity that had been anticipated. After a 
short struggle so to administer the existing sys- 
tem of government, as to make it competent to 
the great objects for which it was instituted, it 
became apparent that some other system must 
be substituted, or a general wreck of all that 
had been gained would ensue. 

Section II. At the close of the war, the debts* 
of the Union were computed to amount to some- 
what more than forty miHions of dollars. By 



+ These debts were of two kinds, foreign and domestick. The fbrei-n 
debt amounted to near eight millions of dollars, and was due to indivi- 
duals in France— to the crown of France— to lenders in Holland and 
Spain. The domestick debt amounted to some more than thirty-four 
rr.iliions of dollars, and was due to persons who held loan office certifi- 
eatea — ^to the oificers and Soldiers of the revolutionaiy army, &c. 



250 PERIOD VI....1783....1789....ESTABLISHMENT OF 

the articles of confederation and union between 
the States, congress had the power to declare 
war, and borrow money, or issue bills of credit to 
carry it on ; but it had not the ability to dis- 
charge debts, incurred by the war. All that 
congress could do, was to recommend to the 
individual States to raise money for that pur- 
pose. 

Soon after the war, the attention of congress 
was drawn to this subject ; the payment of the 
national debt being a matter of justice to cre- 
ditors, as well as of vital importance to the pre- 
servation of the Union. It was proposed, 
therefore, by congress, to the States, that they 
should grant to that body the power of laying a 
duty of five per cent, on all foreign goods, which 
should be imported, and that the revenue 
arising thence should be applied to the dimi- 
nution of the publick debt, until it was extin- 
guished. 

To this proposal, most of the States assented, 
and passed an act, granting the power. But 
Rhode-Island, apprehensive that such a grant 
would lessen the advantages of her trade, de- 
clined passing an act for that purpose. Subse- 
quently, New-York joined in the opposition, 
and rendered all prospect of raising a revenue, 
in this way, hopeless. 

The consequence was, that even the interest 
of the publick debt remained unpaid. Certifi- 
cates of public debt lost their credit, and many 
of the officers and soldiers of the late army, who 
were poor, were compelled to sell these certifi- 
cates at excessive reductions. 

Section III. While the friends of the na- 
tional government were making unavailing ef- 



THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION. 251 

forts to fix upon a permanent revenue, which 
might enable it to preserve the national faith, 
other causes, besides the loss of confidence in 
the confederation, concurred to hasten a radi- 
cal change in the political system of the United 
States. 

Among these causes, the principal was the 
evil resulting from the restrictions of Great Bri- 
tain, laid on the trade of the United States with 
the West Indies ; the ports of those islands 
being shut against the vessels of the United 
States, and enormous duties imposed on our 
most valuable exports. 

Had congress possessed the power, a remedy 
might have been found, in passing similar acts 
against Great Britain ; but this power had not 
been delegated by the States to the congress. 
That thirteen independent sovereignties, always 
jealous of one another, would separately concur 
in any proper measures to compel Great Britain 
to relax, was not to be expected. The im- 
portance of an enlargement of the powers of 
congress was thus rendered still more obvious. 

Section IV. During this enfeebled and disor- 
ganized state of the general government, at- 
tempts were made, in some of the states, to 
maintain their credit, and to satisfy their credi- 
tors. The attempt of Massachusetts to affect 
this, by means of a heavy tax, produced an open 
insurrection among the people. In some parts 
of the State, the people convened in tumultuous 
assemblies — obstructed the sitting of courts, and, 
finally, took arms in opposition to the laws of 
the State., The prudent measures of Gov. Bow- 
doin and his council, seconded by an armed force, 
imder Gen. Lincoln, in the winter of 1786, gra- 



252 PERIOD VI..,.173S....1738....ESTABLI£HMENT O 

dually subdued the spirit of opposition, and re- 
stored the authority of the laws. 

This rising of the people of iMassachusetts is usually styled 
Shai/s' insurrection, from one Daniel Shays, a captain in the 
revolutionaiy army, who h^^aded the insurgents. In August, 
1786, fifteen hundred insurgents assembled at Northam»,ton, 
took possession of the court-house, and prevented the session of 
the court. Similar oiurages occurred at Worcester, Cpncord, 
Taunton, and Springfield. In New-Hampshire, also a body of 
men arose in September, and surrounding the general assembly, 
sitting at Exeter, held them prisoners for several hours. 

In this state of civil commotion, a body of troops, to the num- 
ber of four thousand, was ordered out by Massachusetts, to sup'- 
port the judicial courts, and suppress the insurrection. This 
force was put under the command of General Lincoln. Ano- 
ther body of troops was collected by Gen. Shepherd, near Spring- 
field. After some skirmishing, the insurgents were disp^-t.vd; 
several were taken prisoners and condemned, but were ultiiuateiy 
pardoned. 

Section V. The period seemed to have arriv- 
ed, when it was to be decided whether the gene- 
ral government was to be supported or aban- 
doned — ^whether the glorious objects of the re- 
volutionary struirgle should be realized or lost. 

In January, 1786, the legishiture of Virginia 
adopted a resolution to appoint commissioners, 
who were to meet such others, as might be ap- 
pointed by the other States, to take into consid- 
eration the subject of trade, and to provide for 
a uniform system of commercial relations. &c. 
This resolution, ultimately, led to a proposition 
for a general convention to consider the state of 
the union. 

Bat five States were represented in the con 
vention, proposed by Virginia, which met at An- 
napolis. In consideration of the small number 
of States represented, the convention, without 
coming to any ta>ecific resolution on the paticu- 
]ar subjects referred to tjiem, adjouined to meet 



THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION. 253 

in Philadelphia, the succeeding May. Pre- 
viously to adjournment, it recommended to the 
several States, to\ appoint delegates for that 
meeting, and to gi\\ them power to revise the 
federal sifstejit. \ 

Agreeably to the above recommendation, all 
the StJ^tes of the Unions excepting Rhode-Island, 
appointed commissioners, who, on the 19th of 
May, assembled at Philadelphia. 

Of this body, Gen. WaL^hiiigton, one of the 
commissioners from Virginia, was unanimously 
lected president. The convention proceeded, 
with closed doors, to discuss the interesting sub- 
ject submitted to their consideration. 

Section VI. On the great principles which 
should form the basis of the constitution, not 
much difference of opinion prevailed. But, in 
reducing those principles to practical details, less 
harmony was to be expected. Such, indeed, 
was the difference of opinion, that, more than 
once, there was reason to fear, that the conven- 
tion would rise, without effecting the object for 
which it was formed. Happily, however, it was 
at length agreed to sacrifice local interest on the 
altar of puhlick good, and on the 17th of Sep- 
tember, 1787, the Federal Constitution was 
presented to congress, who, shortly after, sent it 
to the several States for their consideration. 

A.n abstract of this constitution, with its several subsequent 
amendments, follows : it is extracted from Mr. Webster's Ele- 
ments of Useful Knowledf]je. 

Of the Legislature. " The legislative po\Ver of the United 
States is vested in a congress, consisting of two houses or branches, 
a senate, and a house of representatives. The members of the 
house of representatives are chosen once in two years, by the 
persons who are qualified to vote for members of the most nu- 
merous branches of the legislature, in each State. To be en- 
titled to a seat in this house, a person must have attained to the 



254 PERIOD V....1783....1789....ESTABLISHMENT OF 

age of twenty-five years, been a citizen of the United States for 
seven years, and be an inhabitant of the State in which he is 
chosen. 

Of the Senate. " The senate consists of two senators fiom 
each State, chosen by the legislature for six years. The senate 
is divided into three classes, the seats of one of which are va- 
cated every second year. If a vacancy happens, during the 
recess of the legislature, the executive of the state makes a tem- 
porary apponitment of a senator, until the next meeting of the 
legislature. A senator must have attained to the age of thirty 
years, been a citizen of the I nited States nine years, and be an 
inhabitant of the State for which he is chosen. 

Of the power's of the two Houses, " The house of repre- 
sentatives choose their own speaker and other officers, and 
have the exclusive power of impeaching public officers, and 
originating bills for raising a revenue. The vice president of 
the United States is president of the senate ; but the other offi- 
cers are chosen by the senate. The senate tries all impeach- 
ments ; each house determines the validity of the elections and 
qualifications of its own members, forms its own rules, and 
keeps a journal of its proceedings. The members are privileg- 
ed from arrest, while attending on the session, going to, or re- 
turning from the same, except for treason, felony, or breach of 
the peace. 

Of the powers of Congress. " The Congress of the United 
States have power to make and enforce all laws, which are 
necessary for the general welfare — as to lay and collect taxes, 
iiiposts, and excises ; borrow money, regulate commerce, esta- 
blish uniform rules of naturalization, coin money, establish post- 
roads and post-offices, promote the arts and sciences, institute 
tribunals inferiour to the supreme court, define and punish 
piracy, declare war, and make reprisals, raise and support 
armies, provide a navy, regulate the militia, and to make all 
laws necessary to carry these powers into effect. 

Of Restrictions. " No bill of attainder, or retrospective 
law, shall be passed ; the writ of habeas corpus cannot be sus- 
pended, except in cases of rebellion or invasion ; no direct tax 
can be laid, except according to a census of the inhabitants ; no 
duty can be laid on exports, no money can be drawn from the 
treasury, unless appropriated by law ; no title of nobility can 
be granted, nor can any publick officer, without the consent of 
congress, accept of any present or title from any foreign prince 
or state. The States are restrained from emitting bills of credit, 
from making any thing but gold or silver a tender for debts, and 
from passing any law impairing private contracts. 

Of the Executive. " The executive power of the United 



THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION. 255 

States is vested in a president, who holds his office for four 
years. To qualify a man for president, he must have been a 
citizen at the adoption of the constitution, or must be a native 
of the Unif'd States ; he must have attained to the age of 
thirty-five years, and been fourteen years a resident within the 
United States. The president and vice-president are chosen , 
ay electors designated in such a manner as the legislature ol 
each State shall direct. The number of electors, in eacfc 
State is equal to the whole number of senators and representa- 
tives. 

Of the powers of the Fresident. " The president of the 
United States is commander in chief of the army and navy, and 
of the militia when in actual service. He grants reprieves and 
pardons ; nominates, and, with the consent of the senate, ap- 
points ambassadors, judges, and other officers ; and, with the 
advice and consent of the senate, forms treaties, provided two 
thirds of th^ senate agree. He fills vacancies in offices which 
happen during the recess of the senate. He convenes the con- 
gress on extraordinary occasions, receives foreign ministers, 
gives information to congress of the state of publick affairs, and 
in general, takes care that the laws be faithfully executed. 

Of the Judiciary. " The Judiciary of the United States 
consists of one supreme court, and such inferiour courts as the 
congress shall ordain. The judges are to hold their offices du- 
ring good behaviour, and their salaries cannot be diminished 
during their continuance in office. The judicial power of these 
courts extends to all cases in law and equity, arising under the 
constitution, or laws of the United States, and under treaties ; to 
cases of publick ministers and consuls ; to all cases of admiralty 
and maritime jurisdiction ; to controversies between the States, 
and in which the United States are a party ; between citizens of 
different States ; between a State and a citizen of another State, 
and between citizens of the same State, claiming under grants 
of different States ; and to causes between one of the States or 
an American citizen, and a foreign State or citizen. 

Of Rights and Immunities. " In all criminal trials, except 
impeachment, the trial by jury is guaranteed to the accused. 
Treason is restricted to the simple acts of levying war against 
the United States, and adhering to their enemies, giving them 
aid and comfort ; and no person can be convicted, but by two 
witnesses to the same act, or by confession in open court. A 
conviction of treason is not followed by a corruption of blood, to 
disinherit the heirs of the criminal, nor by a forfeiture of estate, 
except during the life of the offender. The citizens of each 
State are entitled to all privileges and immun-ties of citizens in 
the several States. Congress may admit new States into the 



256 PERIOD V....1783....1789... ESTABLISHMENT OF 

union, and the national compact guarantees, to each State, a re- 
publican form of government, together with protection from fo- 
reign invasion and domestick violence." 

Section VII. By a resolution of the conven- 
tion, it was recommended that assemblies should 
be called, in the different States, to discuss the 
merits of the constitution, and either accept or 
reject it ; and, that as soon as nine States should 
have ratified it, it should be carried into operation 
by congress. 

To decide the interesting question, respecting 
the adoption or rejection of the new^ constitution, 
the best talents of the several States vi^ere as- 
sembled in their respective conventions. The 
fate of the constitution could, for a time, be 
scarcely conjectured, so equally were the parties 
balanced. But, at length, the conventions of 
eleven States* assented to, and ratified the con- 
stitution. 

'S'^CiiOre Vill. From the moment it was settled 
that this new arrangement, in their political sys- 
tem, was to take place, the attention of all class- 
es of people, as well anti-federalists as federal- 
ists, (for, hy these names, the parties for and 
against the new constitution were called,) was 
directed to General Washington, as the first 
president of the United States. Accordingly, on 
the opening of the votes, for President, at New- 
York, March 3d, 1 TS-O, by delegates from eleven 
States, it was found that he was unanimously 
elected to that office, and that John Adams was 
elected vice-president. 



* North Carolina and Rhode Island refused their assent at this time, but 
afterwards acceded to it : the former, November, 1789; the latter May, 
I7»a 



THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION. 257 

Section IX JHanueVS* The war of the 

revohition, as was observed in our notes on the 
last period, seriously affected the morals and 
manners of the people of the United States. 
The peace of 1783, however, tended, in a mea- 
sure to restore things to their former state. 
Those sober habits, for which the country was 
previously distinguished, began to return ; busi- 
ness assumed a more regular and equitable cha- 
racter ; the tumultuous passions, roused by the 
war, subsided ; and men of wisdom and worth 
began to acquire their proper influence. 

The change wrought in the manners of the 
people, during the revolution, began, in this pe- 
riod, to appear. National peculiarities wore 
away still more ; local prejudices were further 
corrected, and a greater assimilation of the yet 
discordant materials, of which the population of 
the United States was composed, took place. 

Section X. Eiilf^t^U* Methodism was 
introduced into the United States, during this 
period, under the direction of John Wesley, in 
England. This denomination increased rapidly 
in the Middle States, and, in 1789, they amount- 
ed to about fifty thousand. 

During this period, also, the infidelity , which we have notic- 
ed, seems to have lost ground. Publick worship was more punc- 
tually attended, than during the war, and the cause of religion 
began again to flourish. 

Section XI. ^v^x^t auSi (S^t^mmtxtt. 

The commerce of the United States, during the 
war of the revolution, as already stated, was 
nearly destroyed ; but, on the return of peace, 
it revived. An excessive importation of goods 
immediately took place from England. In 1784^ 



258 PERIOD VI....1783....1789....ESTABLISHMENT OF 

the imports, from England alone, amounted to 
eighteen millions of dollars, and in 1785, to 
twelve millions — making, in those two years, 
thirty millions of dollars, while the exports of 
the United States to England were only between 
eight and nine millions. 

On the average of six years posterior to the war, the extent of 
this period, the imports from Great Britain into the United 
States, were two millions^ one hundred and nineteen thousand, 
eight hundred and thirty-seven pounds sterhng; the exports 
nine Imndred and eight thousand, six hundred and thirty-six 
pounds sterhng, leaving an annual balance of five millions, three 
hundred and twenty-nine thousand, two hundred and eighty- 
four dollars in favour of (jreat Britain. 

The commercial intercourse of the United States with other 
countries was less extensive, than whh England, yet it was not 
inconsiderable. From France and her dependencies, the United 
States imported, in 1787, to the amount of about two millions, 
five hundred thousand dollars, and exported to the same, to the 
value of five millions dollars. 

The trade of the United States whh China commenced soon 
after the close of the revolutionary war. The first American 
vessel that went on a trading voyage to China, sailed from 
New- York, on the 22d of February, 1784, and returned on the 
11th of May 1785. In 1789 there were fifteen American ves- 
sels at Canton, being a greater number, than from any other na- 
tion, except Great Britain. 

During this period, also, the Americans commenced the long 
and hazardous trading voyages to the North West Coast of Ame- 
rica. The first of the kind, undertaken from the United States, 
was from Boston, in 1788, in a ship commanded by Capt. Ken- 
drick. The trade afforded great profits, at first, and since 1788, 
has been carried on from the United States to a considerable 
extent. 

The whale fishery, which during the war, was suspended, re- 
vived on the return of peace. From 1787 to 1789, both inclu- 
sive, ninety-one vessels were employed from the United States, 
with one thousand six hundred and eleven seamen. Nearly 
eight thousand barrels of spermacity oil were annually taken, 
and about thirteen thousand barrels of whale oil. 

Small quantities of cotton were first exported from the United 
States about the year 1784. It was raised in Georgia. 

Section XII. ^0t*ttUUtttt* Agriculture 
revived at the close of the war, and, in a few 



THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION. 259 

years, the exports of produce raised in the Uni- 
ted States were again considerable. Attention 
began to be paid to the culture of cotton, in the 
southern States, about the year 1783, and it soon 
became a staple of that part of the country. 
About the same time, agricultural societies be- 
gan to be formed in the country. 

Sectio7iXiih ^uu anaj^auttfartutrss* 

The excessive importation of merchandize from 
Great Britain, during this period — much of which 
was sold at low prices — checked the progress of 
manufactures in the United States, which had 
been extensively begun, during the war of the 
revolutioue Iron works, however, for the con- 
struction of axes, ironing of carriages, and the 
making of machinery, ^^ c. &c. were still kept up 
in all parts of the United States. Some coarse 
woollen and linen cloths, cabinet furniture, and 
the more bulky and simple utensils for domes- 
tick use, ^c. &c. were manufactured, in New- 
England. 

Section XIV. J^opnl^U^ti^ The population 
of the United States, at the close of this period, 
was nearly four millions. 

Section XV. SlTtttatiOll* Several colleges 
were established, during this period — one in 
Maryland, at Annapolis, called St. John's col- 
lege ; a second, in 1785, at Abington, in the 
same state, by the Methodists, called Cokesbury 
college ; a third, in the city of New-York ; and 
a fourth, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1787 
— The former, by the name of Columbia college, 
and the latter, by that of Franklin college. 
The North Carolina university was mcorporated 
In 1789. 

The subject of education, during this period, 



260 PERIOD VI....1783....1789....ESTABLISHMENT OF 

seems to have attracted publick attention 
throughout the United States, and permanent in- 
stitutions, for the instruction of youth, were 
either planned, or established, in every section 
of the country. 

MtUtttionu. 

XVI. The history of the world furnishes no parallel to tht 
history of the United States during this short period. At tht 
commencement of it, they had but just emerged from a long am. 
distressing war, which had nearly exhausted the country, and 
imposed an accumulated debt upon the nation. They were 
united by a confederation inadequate to the purposes of govern- 
ment ; they had just disbanded an army which was unpaid, and 
dissatisfied, and more than all, they were untried in the art of 
self-government. 

In circumstances like these, it would not have been strange 
had the people fallen into dissensions and anarchy, or had some 
bold, ambitious spirit arisen, and fastened the yoke of monarchy 
upon them. But a happier destiny awaited them. In this hour 
of peril, the same Providence, that had guided them thus far, 
still watched over them, and, as victory was granted them in 
the hour of battle, so wisdom was now vouchsafed in a day ol 
peace. Those master spirits of the revolution, some of whom 
had recently retired from the camp to the enjoyment of civil 
life, were now called to devise the means of securing the inde- 
pendence which they had won. Perhaps they exhibited to the 
world a no less striking spectacle as the framers of our excel- 
lent constitution, than as victors over the arms of Britain. 



UNITED STATES. 



DISTINGUISHED BY WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRAr 
TION. 

Extending from the inauguration of President 
Washington, 1789, to the inauguration of 
John Adams, as president of the United States, 
1797. 

Section I. On the 30th of April, 1789, Gen. 
Washington, in the presence of the first congress, 
under the Federal Constitution, and before an 
immense concourse of spectators, was inducted 
into the office of President of the United States, 
by taking the oath prescribed by the constitu- 
tion. 

Intelligence of his election was communicated to Washington, 
while on his farm in Virginia. On his way to New-York, to 
enter upon the duties of his station, he received, in almost every 
place through which he passed, the highest expressions of affec- 
tion and respect, that a grateful people could pay. 

Soon after his arrival in New- York, a day was assigned for his 
taking the oath of office. On the morning of that day, publick 
prayers were offered in all the churches. At noon, a procession 
was formed, which escorted Washington, dressed on the occa- 
sion wholly in American manufactures, to Federal Hall. Here 
the oath prescribed by the constitution was administered to him, 
by the chancellour of the State of New-York. 

The ceremonies of the inauguration being concluded, Wash- 
ington entered the senate chamber, and delivered his first speech. 
In this, after expressing the reluctance with which he obeyed the 
call of his countrymen, from repose and retirement, so ardently 
coveted, after a series of military toils, and the diffidence with 
which he entered upon an office, so full of responsibility, he pro- 
ceeded thus : 

" It will be peculiarly improper to omit, in this frsf official 



262 PERIOD \II....1789....1797. 

act, my fervent supplirv-tions to that Almighty Being, who 
rules over the universe ; who presides in the councils of nations," 
&;c. Thus did Washington, in the commencement of his ad- 
ministration, publickl_y appear on the side of religion ; nor was 
he ashamed to acknowledge, before the nation, his sense of de- 
pendence upon God, for wisdom and direction. 

Section 11. Business of importance, in rela 
tion to the organization and support of the new 
government, now pressed upon the attention of 
the president, and of congress. A revenue was 
to be provided ; the departments of government 
were to be arranged and filled ; a judiciary was 
to be established, and its officers appointed ; 
and provision was to be made for the support of 
publick credit. 

After a long discussion, congress agreed to 
raise a revenue for the support of government, 
by impost and tonnage duties. Having next 
fixed upon, and arranged the several depart- 
ments of the government, the president, whose 
duty it was, proceeded to nominate^ the proper 
persons to fill them. In performing this ser- 
vice, he appears to have been actuated, simply, 
by a regard to the best good of the country. 

Mr. Jefferson was selected for the department 
of State; Col. Flamilton was appointed secre- 
tary of the treasury ; Gfcn. Knox secretary of 
war, and Edmund Randolph attorney general. 
At the head of the judiciary was placed John 
Jay, and with him were appointed John Rut- 
ledge, James Wilson, William Gushing, Robert 
Harrison, and John Blair. 

During this session of congress, several new- 
articles were proposed to be added to the con- 
stitution, by w^ay of amendment, and to be sub» 
mitted to the several States for their appro- 
bation. 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 263 

After a long and animated discussion of the 
subject, twelve new articles were agreed upon, 
which, when submitted to the respective State 
legislatures, were approved by three-fourths of 
them, and were thus added to the constitution. 

Congress adjourned on the 29th of Septem- 
ber. It was among their concluding acts, to 
direct the secretary of the treasury to prepare a 
plan for adequately providing for the support of 
the public credit, and to report the same at their 
next meeting. 

Section III. During the recess of congress, 
Washington made a tour into New-England. 
Passing through Connecticut and Massachu- 
setts, and into New-Hampshire, as far as Ports- 
mouth, he returned by a different route to New- 
York. 

With this excursion, the president had much reason to be gra- 
tified. To observe the progress of society, the improvements 
in agriculture, commerce, and manufactures, and the temper, 
circumstances, and dispositions of the people — while it could 
not fail to please an intelligent and benevolent mind, was, in all 
respects, worthy of the chief magistrate of the nation. He was 
every where received with expressions of the purest affection, 
and could not fail to rejoice in the virtue, religion, happiqess, 
and prosperity of the people, at the head of whose government 
he was placed. 

Section IV. The second session of the first 
congress commenced, January 8th, 1790. In 
obedience to the resolution of the former con- 
gress, the secretary of the treasury, Mr. Hamil- 
ton, made his report on the subject of main- 
taining the public credit. 

In this report, he strongly recommended to 
congress, as the only mode, in his opinion, in 
which the public credit would be supported : 
^ 1. That provision be made for the full dis- 



264 PERIOD Vn....iy89....l797. 

charge of the foreign debt, according to the 
precise terms of the contract. 

2. That provision be made for the payment 
of the domestick debt, in a similar manner. 

3 That the debts of the several States, 
created for the purpose of carrying on the war, 
be assumed by the general government. 

The proposal for making adequate provision 
for the foreign debt was met, cordially and una- 
nimously ; but, respecting the full discharge of 
the domestic debt, and the assumption of the 
State debts, much division prevailed in con- 
gress. After a spirited and protracted debate 
on these subjects, the recommendation of the 
secretary prevailed, and bills conformable 
thereto passed, by a small majority. 

The division of sentiment among the members of congress, in 
relation to the full, or only a partial payment of the domestick 
debt, arose from this. A considerable proportion of the origin- 
al holders of publick securities had found it necessary to sell 
them, at a reduced price-:— -even as low as tv/o or three shillings 
on the pound. These securities had been purchased by specu- 
lators, with the expectation of ultimately receiving the full 
amount. Under these circumstances, it was contended by 
some, that congress would perform their duty, should they pay 
to all holders of publick securities only the reduced market price. 
Others advocated a discrimination between the present holders 
of securities, and those to whom the debt v/as originally due, 
&c. &c. 

In his report, JMr. Hamilton ably examined these several 
points, and strongly maintained the justice of paying to all 
holders of securities, without discrimination, the full value ot 
what appealed on the face of their certificates. This he con- 
tended, justice demanded, and for this, the publick faith wos 
pf edged. 

By thp opposers of the bill, which lekted to the assumption 
of the State debts, the constitutional authority of the federal 
government for this purpose was question d; and the policy 
and justice of the measure controverted. 

To cancel the several debts which congress 
thus undertook to discharge, the proceeds ot 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 265 

publick lands, lying in the western territory, 
were directed to be applied, together with the 
surplus revenue, and a loan of two millions of 
dollars, which the president was authorized to 
borrow, at an interest of five per cent. 

This measure laid the foundation of publick 
credit upon such a basis, that government paper 
soon rose from two shillings and six pence to 
twenty shillings on the pound, and, indeed, for 
a short time, was above par. Individuals, who 
had purchased certificates of public debt low, 
realized immense fortunes. A general spring 
was given to the affairs of the nation. A spirit 
of enterprise, of agriculture, and commerce, 
universally prevailed, and the foundation was 
thus laid for that unrivalled prosperity which the 
United States, in subsequent years, enjoyed. 

Section V. During this session of congress, 
a bill was passed, fixing the seat of government 
for ten years at Philadelphia, and, from and 
after that time, permanently at Washington, on 
the Potomac. 

Section VI. On the 4th of March, 1791, Ver- 
mont, by consent of congress, became one of 
the United States. 

The tract of country, which is now known by the name of 
Vermont, was settled at a much later period, than any other of 
the eastern states. The governments of New- York and Massa- 
chusetts made large grants of territory in the direction of Ver- 
mont ; but it was not until 1724, that any actual possession was 
taken of land, within the present boundaries of the State. In 
that year, Fort Durance was built, by the officers of Massachu- 
setts, on Connecticut river. On the other side of the state, the 
• French advanced up lake Champlain, and, in 1731, buiU 
Crown Point, and began a settlement on the eastern shore ol 
the lake, 

Vermont being supposed to fall within the limits of New 
Hampshire, that government made large grants of land to sett- 
lers, even west of Connecticut river. New- York, however, con- 

23 



265 PERIOD VIT....1789....i797. 

ceived herself to have a bettrr right to the territory, in conse- 
quence of the grant of Chaiies II. to his brother the duke of 
York. These states being thus at issue, the case was submitted 
to the English crown, whicli decided in favour of New- York, 
ard connrmed its jurisdiction; as i'ar as Connecticut river. In 
this decision New ilampshire acquiesced; but New-York per- 
sisting in its claims to land east of the river, actions of eject- 
ment were instituted in tiie courts at Albany, which resulted in 
favour of the N\?w-\ork title. The settlers, however, deter- 
mined to resist the olFicers of Justice, and under Ethan Allen, 
issociated together to oppose the New- York militia, which were 
called out to enforce the laws. 

Ot! the commencement of the revolution, the people of Ver- 
mont were placed in an embarrassing situation. They had not 
even a form of government. The jurisdiction of New- York 
being disclaimed, and allegiance to the British crown refused, 
every thing was effected by voluntary agreement. In January, 
1777, a convention met and proclaimed that the district before 
known by the name of the New Hampshire grants, was of right 
a free and independent jurisdiction, and should be henceforth 
called New Connecticut, alias Vermont. The convention pro- 
ceeded to make known their proceedings to congress, and peti- 
tioned to be admitted into the confederacy. To this, New- 
York objected, and for a time, prevailed. Other difficulties 
arose with New Hampshire and Massachusetts, each of which 
laid claim to land whhin the present boundaries of the state. At 
the peace of 1783, Vermont found herself a sovereign and inde- 
pendent state de facto, united with no confederation and there- 
fore unembarrassed by the debts that weighed down the other 
states. New- York still claimed jurisdiction over the state, but 
was unable to enforce it, and the state government was admin- 
istered as regularly as in any of the other states. After the 
formation of the federal constitution, Vermont again requested 
admission into the Union. The opposition of New-Y^ork was 
still strong, but in 1789 was finally withdrawn, upon the con- 
sent of Vermont to pay her the sum of thirty thousand dollars. 
Thus terminated a controversy which had been carried on with 
animosity, and with injury to both parties, for twenty-six years. 
A convetstion was immediately called, by which it was resolved 
to join the federal union. Upon application to congress, their 
consent was readily given, and on the 4th of March, 1791? Ver- 
mont was added to the United States. 

Section VII. At the time that congress as- 
sumed the State debts, during their second ses- 
sion, the secretary of the treasury had recom- 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 267 

mended a tax on domestick spirits, to enable 
them to pay the inlefest. The discussion of the 
bill having been po^-^tponed to the third session, 
was early in th it ? a;ssion taken up. The tax, 
contenipkited by the bill, was opposed with 
great veiiemence, by a majority of southern and 
western members, on tlie ground that it was un- 
necessary and unequal, and would be particu- 
larly burdensome upon those parts of the Union, 
which could not, without very great expense, 
procure foreign ardent spirits. Instead of this 
tax, these members proposed an increased duty 
on imported articles generally, a particular duty 
on molasses, a direct tax, or a tax on salaries, 
&c. &c. After giving rise to an angry and 
protracted debate, the bill passed, by a majority 
of thirty-five to twenty-one. 

Section VIII. The secretary next appeared 
with a recommendation for a national bank. 
A bill, conforming to his plan, being sent down 
from the senate, was permitted to progress, un- 
molested, in the house of representatives, to the 
third reading. On the final reading, an unex- 
pected opposition appeared against it, on the 
ground that banking systems were useless, that 
the proposed bill was defective, but, especially, 
that congress was not vested, by the constitu- 
tion, with the competent power to establish a 
national bank. 

These several objections were met by the 
supporters of the bill, with much strength of 
argument. After a debate of great length, sup- 
ported with the ardour excited by the import- 
ance of the subject, the bill was carried in the 
affirmative, by a majority of nineteen voices. 



268 ERIOD V....l78a...l797. 

A bill which had been agitated with so much warmth, in the 
house of representativesj the executive was now called upon to 
examine with reference to its sanction or rejection. The pre- 
sident required the opinions of the cabinet in writing. The se- 
cretary of state, Mr. Jefferson, and the attorney gene; al, Mr. 
Randolph, considered the bill as decidedly unconstiEutional. 
The secretary of the treasury, Mr. Hamilton, with equal deci- 
sion, maintained the opposite opinion. A deliberate investiga- 
tion of the subject satisfied the president, both of the constitu 
tionality and utility of the bill, upon which he gave it his signa 
ture. 

The bill which had now passed, with those relating to the fi 
nances of the country, the assumption of the state debts, the 
funding of the national debt, &c. contributed greatly to the com- 
plete organization of those distinct and visible parties, which, in 
their long and ardent conflict for power, have since shaken the 
United States to their centre. 

Section IX. While matters of high importance 
were occupying the attention, and party strife 
and conflicting interests were filhng the coun- 
sels of congress with agitation, an Indian war 
opened on the north-western frontier of the 
States. Pacifick arrangements had been at- 
tempted by the president with the hostile tribes, 
without effect. On the failure of these, an of- 
fensive expedition was planned against the 
tribes, northwest of the Ohio. 

The command of the troops, consisting of 
three hundred regulars, and about one thousand 
two hundred Pennsylvania and Kentucky mi- 
litia, was given to Gen. Harmar, a veteran 
officer of the revolution. His instructions re- 
quired him, if possible, to bring the Indians to 
an engagement ; but, in any event, to destroy 
their settlements, on the waters of the Scioto, 
a river falling into the Ohio, and the Wabash, 
in the Indiana territory. In this expedition, 
Harmar succeeded in destroying some villages, 
and a quantity of grain, belonging to the In- 
dians ; but in an engagement with them, near 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 269 

Chilicothe, lie was routed with considerable 
loss. 

Upon the failure of Gen. Harmar, Major-Ge- 
neral Arthur St. Clair was appointed to succeed 
him. Under the authority of an act of congress, 
the president caused a body of levies to be rais- 
ed for six months, for the Indian service. 

Section X. Having arranged the northwest- 
ern expedition, directing St. Clair to destroy 
the Indian villages, on the Miami, and to drive 
the savages from the Ohio, the president com- 
menced a tour through the southern States, simi- 
lar to that which he had made through the 
northern and central parts of the union, in 1789. 

The saiiie expressions of respect and afiection awaited him, in 
every stage of his tour, which had been so zealously accorded to 
liim in the north. Here, also, he enjoyed the high satisfaction 
of witnessing the most happy effects, resuking from the admi- 
nistration of that government over which he presided. 

Section XI. On the 24th of October, 1791, 
the second congress commenced its first session. 
Among the subjects that early engaged their 
attention, was a bill •' for apportioning represen- 
tatives among the people of the several States, 
according to the first census." After much dis- 
cussion, concerning the ratio that should be 
adopted, between representation and population, 
congress finally fixed it at one representative to 
each State, for every thirty-three thousand in- 
habitants. 

The first bill fixed the ratio at one representative for every 
thirty thousand inhabitants; but to this bill the senate would 
not agree. A second bill was introduced, providing one reprC' 
sentative for every thirty thousand, and dividing eight repre- 
sentatives among those States which had the greatest fractions. 
This bill the president returned to the hodse, whence it originat- 
ed, as unconstitutional, as by it, eight States would send more 
representatives than their population allowed. 

Section XII. In December, intelligence was 

23* 



270 PERIOD VII....l789....1797c 

received by the president, that the army under 
Gen. St. Clair, in battle with the Indians, near 
the Miami, in Ohio, had been totally defeated on 
the 4th of the preceding month. 

The army of St. Clair amounted to near one thousand five 
liundred men. The Indian force consisted of nearly the same 
number. Of the loss of the Indians, no estimate could be form- 
ed ; but the loss of the Americans was unusually severe ; thirty- 
eight commissioned officers were killed in the field, and five 
hundred and ninety-three non-commissioned officers and privates 
were slain and missing. Between two and three hundred offi- 
cers and privates were wounded, many of whom afterwards 
died. This result of the expedition was as unexpected, as un- 
fortunate ; but no want either of ability, zeal or intrepidity, was 
ascribed, by a committee of congress, appointed to examine the 
causes of its failure, to the commander of the expedition. 

Section XIII. Upon the news of St. Clair's 
defeat, a bill was introduced into congress for 
raising three additional regiments of infantry, 
and a squadron of cavalry, to serve for three 
years, if not sooner discharged. This bill, al- 
though finally carried, met with an opposition 
more w^arm and pointed, from the opposers of 
the administration, than any which had before 
been agitated in the house. 

By those who opposed the bill, it was urged that the war with 
the Indians was unjust ; that militia would answer as well, and 
even better than regular troops, and would be less expensive to 
support ; that adequate funds could not be provided ; and more 
than all, that this addition of one regiment to the army after ano- 
ther gave fearful intimation of monarchical designs, on the part of 
those who administered the government. 

On the other hand, the advocates of the bill contended, that 
the war was a war of self defence ; that between the years 1783 
and 1790, not less tlian one thousand five hundred inhabitants 
of Kentucky, or emigrants to that country, and probably double 
that number, had been massacred by the Indians ; and that re- 
peated efforts had been made by the government to obtain a 
peace, notwithstanding which, the butcheries of the savages still 
continued in their most appalling forms. 

Section XIV. On the 8th of May, 1792, con- 
gress adjourned to the first Monday in Novem 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 271 

ber. The asperity which, on more than one 
occasion, had discovered itself in the course of 
debate, was a certain index of the growing ex- 
asperation of parties. With their adjournment, 
the^conflicting feelings of members in a measure 
subsided ; the opposition, however, to the admi- 
nistration, had become fixed. It was carried 
into retirement — was infused by members into 
their constituents, and a party was thus formed 
throughout the nation, hostile to the plans of 
government adopted by Washington, and his 
friends in the cabinet. 

Section XV. On the first of June, 1792, Ken- 
tucky, by act of congress, was admitted into 
the Union as a State. 

The country, nov/ called Kentucky, was well known to the 
Indian traders, many years before its settlement. By whom it 
was first explored, is a matter of uncertainty, and has given rise 
to controversy. In 17'52, a map was published by Lewis 
Evans, of the country on tlie Ohio and Kentucky rivers ; and 
it seems that one James Macbride, with others, visited this re- 
gion in 1754. No further attempt was made to explore the 
country until 1767, when John I'inWy of North Carolina, tra- 
velled over the ground on the Kentucky river, called by the In- 
dians, " the dark and bloody ground." On returning to Caro- 
lina, Finley communicated his discoveries to Col. Daniel Boone, 
who in 1769, with some others, undertook to explore the coun- 
try. After a long and fatiguing march, they discovered the 
beautiful valley of Kentucky. Col. Boone continued an inhabit- 
ant of this wilderness until 1771? when he returned to his fa- 
mily for the^urpose of removing them, and forming a settlement 
in tlie new country. In 1773, having made the necessary pre- 
parations, he set out again with five families and forty men, from 
Powell's Valley, and after various impediments, reached the 
Kentucky river, in March 1775, where he commenced a settle- 
ment. 

In the years, 1778, 1779, and 1780; a considerable number 
of persons emigrated to Kentucky ; yet, in this latter year, after 
an unusually severe winter, the inhabitants were so distressed 
that they came the determination of abandoning the country for 
ever. They were fortunately diverted from this step, by the ar- 
rival of emigrants. During the revolutionary war they suffered 



272 PERIOD Vn....l7S9....i797. 

severely from the Indians, incited by the British government. 
In 1778, Gen. Clarke overcame the Indians, and laid waste 
their villages. From this time the inhabitants began to feel 
more secure, and the settlements were extended. In 1779, the 
legislature of Virginia, within whose limits this region lay, erect- 
ed it into a county. In 1782, a supreme court, with an attor- 
ney-general, was established within the district. In the years 
1783, 1784, and 1785, the district was laid out into counties, 
and a great part of the country surveyed and patented. In 1785, 
an attempt was made to form an independent State ; but a ma- 
jority of the inhabitants being opposed to the measure, it was 
delayed until December, 1790, when it became a separate state. 
In 1792, as stated above, it was admitted into the Union. 
The growth of Kentucky has been rapid, and she has obtained 
a respectable rank and influence among her sister States. 

Section XVI. During the recess of congress, 
preparations were hastened by the president, 
for a vigorous prosecution of the war with the 
Indians ; but such small inducements were pre- 
^^eiited to engage in the service, that a sufficient 
number of recruits could not be raised to autho- 
rize an expedition against them the present 
year. As the clamour against the war, by the 
opposers of the admiiiish^tion, was still loud, 
tke- president deemed it advisable, while prepa- 
rations for hostilities were advancing, to make 
another effort at negotiation, with the un- 
friendly Indians. The charge of this business 
was committed to Col. Harden and Maj. Free- 
man, two brave officers, and valuable men, who 
were murdered by the savages. 

Section XVII. On the opening of the next 
congress, in November, a motion was made to 
reduce the military establishment, but it did not 
prevail. The debate on this subject was pecu- 
liarly earnest, and the danger of standing ar- 
mies was powerfully urged. This motion, de- 
signed as a reflection upon the executive, was 
followed by several resolutions, introduced by 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 27S 

Mr. Giles, tending to criminate the secretary of 
the treasury, Mr. Hamilton, of misconduct, in re- 
lation to certain loans, negotiated under his di- 
rection. 

In three distinct reports, sent to the house, 
the secretary offered every required explanation, 
and ably defended himself .against the attacks 
of the opposition. Mr. Giles, and some others, 
however, were not satisfied : other resolutions 
were, therefore, offered, which, although re- 
jected, were designed to fix upon the secretary 
ihe reputation of an ambitious man, aiming at 
the acquisition of dangerous power. 

During these discussions, vehement attacks were made upon 
the secretary, in the publick prints. Hints also were suggested 
against the president himself; and although he was not openly 
accused of being the head of the federal i>arty, of favouring their 
cause, or designing to subvert the liberties of his coinitry, yet it 
was apparent that such suspicions were entertained of him. 

On the 3d of March, 1793, a constitutional 
period was put to the existence of this congress. 
The members separated with obvious symptoms 
of irritation ; and it was not to be doubted that 
their efforts would be exerted to communicate 
to their constituents the feelings which agitated 
their bosoms. 

Section XVIII. The time had now arrived, 
1 793, when the electors of the States were again 
called upon to choose a chief magistrate of the 
Union. Washington had determined to with- 
hold himself from being again elected to the 
presidency, and to retire from the cares of poli- 
tical life. Various considerations, however, 
prevented the declaration of his wishes, and he 
was again unanimously elected to the chair of 
State. Mr. Adam^i was re-elected vice-pre- 
sident. 



274 PERIOD VII....1789....1797. 

Section XIX. Through the unceasing endea- 
vours of the president to terminate the Indian 
war, a treaty had been negotiated with the In- 
dians, on the Wabash ; and through the inter- 
vention of the Six Nations, those of the Miamis 
had consented to a conference during the 
ensuing spring. Offensive operations were, 
therefore, suspended, although the recruiting 
service was industriously urged, and assiduous 
attention was paid to the discipline and prepa- 
ration of the troops. 

Section XX. The Indian war, though of real 
importance, was becoming an object of second- 
ary consideration. The revolution in France 
was now progressing, and began so to affect our 
relation with that country, as to require an ex- 
ertion of all the wisdom and firmness of the go- 
vernment. Early in April, also, information 
was received of the declaration of war by 
France, against England and Holland. 

This event excited the deepest interest in the 
United States. A large majority of the people, 
grateful for the aid that France had given us in 
our revolution, and devoted to the cause of li- 
berty, were united in fervent wishes for the suc- 
cess of the French republick.* At the same 



♦The revolution in France commenced about the year 1789. It seems 
to have been hastened, or brought on, by the new ideas of freedom, which 
had been imbibed by the French army in the United States, and thence 
disseminated among the people of France, for a long time oppressed and 
degraded by a despoticlc government. Unfortunately, the revolution fell 
into the hands of selfish and unprincipled men, who, in 1793, executed 
their king, Louis XVI. and, soon after, his family, and murdered or impri- 
soned those who were suspected of hostihty to their views, and involved 
France in a scene of guilt and bloodshed, which cannot be contemplated 
without horrour. In the first stages of this revolution, the friends of li- 
berty throughout the world were full of hopes for a melioration of the po- 
litical condition of France ; but these hopes were soon blasted by the san- 
guinary steps adopted by the revolutionists. Had they been men govern 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 275 

time, the prejudices against Great Britain, which 
had taken deep root during the revolution, now 
sprung forth afresh, and the voice of many was 
heard, urging the propriety of the United States 
making a common cause with France against 
Great Britain. 

A pressing occurrence had called Washing- 
ton to Mount Vernon, when intelligence arrived 
of the rupture between France and England. 
Hastening his return to Philadelphia, he sum- 
moned the attention of his cabinet to several 
questions respecting the course of conduct, pro- 
per for the United States to observe in relation 
to the belligerents. 

Although sensible of the prejudices existing 
in the country against Great Britain, and of the 
friendly disposition which prevailed towards 
France, it was the unanimous opinion of the 
cabinet, that a strict neutrality should be ob- 
served by the United States towards the con- 
tending powers. The council was also unani- 
mous that a minister from the French Repub- 
lick should be received, should one be sent. 

In accordance with the advice of his cabinet, 
the president issued his proclamation of neu- 
trality, on the 22d of April, 1793. This pro- 
clamation, being without legislative sanction, 
soon became the subject of loud invective. The 
opposition party, through the press, pronounced 
it ^' a royal edict," an assumption of power on 
the part of the president, and a proof of his mo- 
narchical disposition. They denounced the con- 



ed by reason and religion, instead of unbridled ambition ; actuated by a 
philanthropick regard to the good of the people, instead of a selfish thirst 
of power : France to this daiy might have enjoyed the blessings of a free 
government. 



276 PERIOD VII...,1789....1797. 

duct of the executive as dishonourable, and an 
act of neutrality, as high ingratitude towards 
France, the firm and magnanimous ally of the 
United States, which had assisted in achieving 
tlie liberties of the country. 

Section XXI. In this state of things, the Re- 
publick of France recalled the minister of the 
crown, and appointed Mr. Genet to succeed 
him. His mission had for its object the enlist- 
ing of America in the cause of France, against 
Great Britain. Flattered by the manner in 
which he was received by the people, as well as 
by their professions of attachment to his coun- 
try, Mr. Genet early anticipated the accomplish- 
ment of his object. — Presuming too much upon 
this attachment, he was led into a series of acts 
infringing the neutrality proclaimed by the pre- 
sident. He also attempted to rouse the people 
against the government, because it did not se- 
cond all his views. At length, on the advice 
of his cabinet, the president solicited of the 
French Republick the recall of Mr. Genet, and 
the appointment of some one to succeed him. 
Monsieur Fauchet was appointed, and was in- 
structed to assure the American government, 
that France totally disapproved of the conduct 
of his predecessor. 

Mr. Genet, on his arrival in the country, landed at Charles- 
ton S. C. He was received by the governour of that State, and 
by the citizens, with a flow of enthusiastick feeling, equalled ow^y 
by that which had been evinced towards his nation at the con- 
quest of Yorktown. 

Soon after landin,g at Charleston, he began to authorize the 
fitting and arming of vessels, in that port, enlisting men, and 
giving commissions to cruise and commit hostihties against na- 
tions, with which the United States were at peace. Vessels cap- 
tured by these cruisers were brought into port, and the consuls 
of France, under the authority of Genet, not yet recognized as a 
minister by the American government, assumed the power of 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 27T 

holding oourts of admiralty on them, of trying and condemning 
them, and of authorizing their sale. Upon a complaint of the Bri- 
tish minister, Mr. Hammond, the American cabinet unanimously 
condemned those proceedings, and agreed that the efficacy of the 
laws should be tried against those citizens, who had been con- 
cerned in them. Prosecutions were accordingly ordered and ac 
tually commenced. 

The decisions and conduct of the cabinet gave great umbrage 
to Genet, who had now been accredited as the minister ol 
France. In his communications to the secretary of state, his 
dissatisfaction was expressed in strong terms, and the executive 
charged with holding opinions, and adopting a course diametri 
cally opposed to the views and wishes of the American people. 
In language highly offensive and reprehensible, he demanded 
that those persons under arrest, by order of the government ot 
the United States, should be released, "on the. ground that they 
were acting under the authority of France, and defending the 
glorious cause of liberty in common with her children." And 
at length, he incautiously avowed the purpose, should his de- 
mands not be complied with, of appealing from the president to 
the people. 

The language and conduct of Genet made a deep impression 
on the officers of the administration ; but happily, they preserv- 
ed, in all their communications with that gentleman, a becoming 
dignity, and continued to express a high respect and affection for 
his nation, and an earnest desire to promote its interests. 

On the meeting of congress, December, 1793, the proclama- 
tion of neutrality v;as approved by them, as well as the conduct 
of'the government towards Mr. Genet. 

Finding on most questions, arising between the French minis- 
ter and the government of the United States, a wide, and an in- 
^ creasing difference of views, and perceiving no beneficial effects 
resulting from his continuance in that character, the cabinet 
unanimously advised his recall. 

Section XXII. 1 794. On the last day of De- 
cember, 1 793, Mr. Jefferson, the seci-etary of 
state, resigned his office, and was succeeded 
by Edmund Randolph, the then attorney-gene- 
ral. This latter office was filled by William 
Bradford, a gentleman of considerable emi- 
nence in Penns^dvania. 

.SecHofi XXIII. During the session of con- 
gress this year, a resolution passed to provide a 
24 



278 PERIOD VII....1789....1797. 

naval force adequate to the protection of the 
commerce of the United States, against the Al- 
gerine corsairs. The force proposed was to 
consist of six frigates, four of forty-four, and two 
of thirty-six guns. 

This measure was founded upon the communications of the 
president, from which it appeared that the prospect of being 
able to negotiate a treaty of peace with the dey of Algiers was 
doubtful ; that eleven American merchant vessels, and upwards 
of one hundred citizens had been captured by them ; and that 
further preparations were making for a renewed attack upon un- 
protected vessels, belonging to the United States. 

SectionXXlY , During this session of congress, 
a law passed, prohibiting the carrying on of the 
slave trade from the American ports. 

England had been actively engaged in the slave trade nearly 
fifty years, when the first settlement was eftected in Virginia. 
Slavery was early introduced into the American colonies. The 
first slaves, about twenty in number, were brought to Virginia, 
in 1619, by a Dutch ship. The importation of them gradually 
increased, and although principally bought by the southern 
planters, slaves were soon found, in great numbers, in all the 
colonies. In 1784, they amounted to six hundred thousand. In 
1790, to six hundred and ninety-seven thousand six hundred 
and ninety-six. 

A disgust towards this inhuman traffick appeared very early 
in the colonies ; but it was countenanced and patronized by the 
English government, and thus introduced into, and fastened 
upon the country, without the power, on the part of the colonies, 
to arrest it. 

In Massachusetts, in l645, a law was made, "prohibiting 
the buying and selling of slaves, except those taken in lawful 
war, or reduced to servitude by their crimes." In 1703, the 
same colony imposed a heavy duty on every negro imported, 
and in a subsequent law on the subject, they called the practice, 
" the unnatural and unaccountable custom of enslaving man- 
IcindP In Virginia, as early as 1699, attempts were made to 
repress the importation of slaves, by heavy duties. These, and 
other acts, show that the North American provinces would, if 
left to themselves, have put an end to the importation of slaves 
before the era of their independence. 

In 1778, Virginia abolished the traffick by law ; Connecticut, 
Rhode-Island, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts prohibited it 
before the year 1789. The continental congress passed a reso> 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION, 279 

lution against the purchase of slaves, imported from Africa, and 
exhorted the colonies to abandon the trade altogether. The 
third congress of the United States, as stated above, prohibited 
the trade, by law. Thus we see, in the United States, a very 
early and settled aversion to the slave trade manifesting itself, 
and before European nations had consented to relinquish it, 
several of the States had utterly prohibited it. 

Section XXV. At this session, also, several 
measures were adopted in anticipation of a war 
with Great Britain, growing out of her commer- 
cial restriction, which bore heavy, and operated 
most unjustly upon the U. States. Bills were 
passed for laying an embargo for thirty days — 
for erecting fortifications — for organizing the 
militia, and increasing the standing army. As 
an adjustment of differences, however, seemed 
desirable, Mr. Jay was appointed envoy extraor- 
dinary to the court of St. James, and succeeded 
in negotiating a treaty with Great Britain the 
following year. 

Among the offensive acts of the^government of Great Britain, 
was an order of June, 1793, prohibiting the exportation of corn 
to France, and authorizing the capture of neutral vessels car- 
rying it thither. Under this order, many American vessels 
were captured, and carried into England. In November fol- 
lowing, additional instructions were given by the British cabinet, 
to ships of war, and privateers, to bring into port, for trial, 
all ships laden with goods from France, or her colonies, 
and such as were carrying provisions, or other supplies, to 
either. To these causes of complaint, Great Britain had added 
another, viz. neglecting to deliver up the western posts accord- 
ing to treaty. 

While measures were taking, in anticipation of war, the pre- 
sident received advices from England, that the order of Novem- 
ber had been considerably modified ; that most of the merchant 
vessels, which had been carried into port for trial, would be re- 
leased ; and that a disposition for peace with the United States 
existed in the British cabinet. 

These advices opened to the president a prospect of restoring 
a good understanding between the two nations, and induced him 
immediately to nominate an envoy to settle existing differences, 



280 PERIOD V.,..1739....1797. 

and to negotiate commercial arrangements. The nomination of 
Mr. Jay was approved, in the senate, by a majority often. 

To those opposed to the administration, no step could have 
been more unexpected, or disagreeable, than this decisive mea- 
sure of the president. Prejudices against Great Britain had 
risen to their height, and hostilities against her were loudly de- 
manded, as both just and necessary. It ^as not singular, there- 
fore, that for this act, the president should receive the severest 
censures of the opposition party, nor that all who favoured his 
efforts for peace should be included in the general denunciation. 

Section XXVI. The suspension of hostilities 
against the Indians in the northwest, in conse- 
quence of their consenting to a conference in 
the spring of 1794, has already been noticed. 
This effort to conclude a treaty with them fail- 
ing, Gen. Wayne, who had succeeded Gen. St. 
Clair, engaged the Indians, August 20th, 1794, 
on the banks of the Miami, and gained a com- 
plete victory over them. 

The American troops engaged in this battle did not exceed 
nine hundred ; the Indians amounted to two thousand. In this 
decisive engagement, Gen Wayne lost one hundred and seven 
in killed and wounded, including officers. After the battle he 
proceeded to lay waste the whole Indian country. By means 
of this victory over the Miamis, a general war with the Six Na- 
tions, and all the tribes northwest of the Ohio, was prevented. 

Section XXVII. This year, 1794, was dis- 
tinguished by an insurrection in Pennsylvania, 
growing out of laws enacted by congress, in 
1791, laying duties on spirits distilled within the 
United States, and upon stills. In August, the 
president issued his proclamation, commanding 
the insurgents to disperse. This not having 
the desired effect, a respectable body of militia 
was ordered out, under Gov. Lee, of Maryland, 
on whose approach the insurgents laid down 
their arms, solicited the clemency of the govern- 
ment, and promised future submission to the 
laws. 

From the time that duties were laid upon spirits distilled with- 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 281 . 

in the United States, &c. combinations were formed, in the four 
western counties of Pennsylvania, to prevent their collection. 
Numerous meetings were held at different times and places, at 
which resolutions were passed, and, in several instances, violences 
were committed upon the officers of the revenue. Eighteen of 
the insurgents were taken, and tried for treason, but net con- 
victed. 

Section XXVIII. 1795. January 1st, Col. 
Hamilton resigned the office of secretary of the 
treasury, and was succeeded by OHver Wolcott, 
of Connecticut. Nearly at the same time, Ti- 
mothy Pickering succeeded Gen. Knox, in the 
department of war. 

Section XXIX. In June, Mr. Jay, having 
succeeded in negotiating a treaty with Great 
Britain, the senate was convened to consider its 
merits. After an elaborate discussion of it, that 
body advised to its ratification by a majority of 
tw^enty to ten. Notwithstanding the great op- 
position to it that prevailed among the enemies 
of Great Britain, the president gave it his sig- 
nature. Contrary to the predictions of many in 
the country, the treaty settled existing difficul- 
ties between the two nations, prevented a war, 
which previously seemed fast approaching, and 
proved of great advantage to tlie United States. 

The treaty, when published, found one party prepared for i^s 
condemnation, while the other was not ready for its defence. 
Time was necessary iot a judicious and careful consideratioH of 
its merits. 

In the populous cities, meetings were immediately called, and 
resolutions and addresses forwarded to the president, requesting 
him to withhold his assent. Upon the president, however, these 
had no other effect, than to induce him to weigh still more care- 
fully the merits of the treaty. When, at length, he was satisfied 
of its utility, he signed it, ahhough he thereby incurred the cen- 
sures of a numerous portion of the citizens. 

Section XXX. In the course of the following 
autumn, treaties were concluded with the dey 
of Algiers, and with the Miamis in the west. 

24* 



282 PERIOD VII....1789....1797. 

By the former treaty, American citizens, ir cap- 
tivity in Algiers, were liberated, and by the lat- 
ter, the western frontiers of the United States 
were secured from savage invasion. A treaty 
with Spain soon after followed, by which the 
claims of the United States, on the important 
points of boundary, and the navigation of the 
Mississippi, were fully conceded. ' 

Section XXXI. On the 1st of June, 1796, 
Tennessee was admitted, by act of congress, 
into the Union as a State. 

Tennessee derives its name from its principal river. This 
name, in the language of the Indians, signifies a curved spoon, 
the curvature, to their imaginations, resembling that of the river 
Tennessee. 

The territory of Tennessee was granted in 1664, by Charles 
II. to the earl of Clarendon, and others, being included in the 
limits of the Carolinas. About the beginning of the next cen- 
tury, Carolina v/as divided into two provinces, and Tennessee 
fell to the lot of the northern province. Near the year 1754, 
fifty families were settled on the Cumberland river, where Nash- 
ville now stands ; but they were dislodged by the savages soon 
after. Iri 1765, a number of emigrants settled themselves be- 
yond the JDresent limits of North Carolina, and were the first of 
the colonists of Tennessee. By the year 1773, the inhabitants 
had considerably increased. When the constitution of North 
Carolina was formed, in 1776, that district sent deputies to the 
meeting. In the year 1780, a small colony of about forty fami- 
lies, under the direction of James Robertson, crossed the moun- 
tains, and settled on the Cumberland river, where they founded 
Nashville. In 1785, the inhabitants of Tennessee, feeling the 
incoRveniencies of a government so remote as that in the capital 
of North Carolina, endeavoi^red to form an independent one, to 
which they intended to give the name of the " State of Frank- 
lin ;'' but differing amon^ themselves, the scheme for the time 
was abandoned. In 1789, the legislature of North Carolina 
passed an act, ceding the territory, on certain conditions, to the 
United States. Congress, in the following year, accepted the 
cession, arid by another act, passed on the 26th of May, 1790, 
provided for its government under tlie title of " The territory 
o/ the United States, south of the Ohio." In 1796, Congress 
passed an act enablinj? the people to form a ^ate constitution, 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 283 

which having been adopted and approved, Tennessee was ac- 
knowledged as a sovereign state in the union. 

Section XXXII. On the meeting of congress 
in 1796) resolutions were passed to carry into 
elFect the treaties negotiated the preceding year. 
On the subject of the treaty with Great Britain, 
the liveliest sensibility still prevailed. After a 
spirited and protracted debate of seven weeks, 
on the subject of making the necessary arrange- 
ments for this treaty, resolutions to that effect 
passed the house by a majority of only three. 

Section XXXIII. As the time for a new 
election of the chief magistrate of the Union 
approached, Gen. Washington signified his in- 
tention to retire from publick life. Wishing to 
terminate his political course with an act suit- 
able to his own character, and permanently 
useful to his countrymen, he published a vale- 
dictory address to the people of the United 
States, fraught with maxims of the highest po- 
litical importance, and with sentiments of the 
warmest affection for his country. 

In February, 1 797, the votes for his successor 
were opened, and counted in the presence of 
both houses of congress. The highest number 
appearing in favour of Mr. Adams, he was de- 
clared to be elected president of the United 
States, for the four years ensuing, commencing 
on the 4th of March. Mr. Jefferson succeeded 
Mr. Adams in the vice-presidency. 



Section XXXIV. ^VLXiWtVU^ We can re- 
mark, during this period, no veiy distinct 



2b4 PERIOD Vn....l789....l797 

change in the manners of the people of the 
United States, except that the introduction oi 
French philosophy seems to have affected, in 
some degree, the sober habits and strict mora- 
lity of the people, which, although relaxed by 
the war, had now begun to resume their in- 
fluence. 

Section XXXV. MtUQimX^ At the close 
of the preceding period, we observed that reli- 
gion had revived, in a degree, from the injuries 
it suffered during the revolutionary war; and 
we might have expected, that under the auspi- 
ces of a wise and settled government, conducted 
by a practical christian, like Washington, it 
would have acquired a still more commanding 
influence. Such, however, was not the fact. 

As the people of the United States heartily 
espoused the cause of the revolution in France, 
and sympathized with that people, in their strug- 
gle for freedom, it was but too natural, that the 
sentiments of the revolutionists, on other than 
political subjects, should be imbibed. As the 
French revolutionists were almost universally 
deists, or atheists, these sentiments were exten- 
sively spread over the United States. 

For a time, the boldness of the enterprises, the splendour of 
the victories, and the importance of the conquests, achieved by 
the French republick, promoted the extension of French infi- 
dehty in the United States. " Most eyes," says Dr. Dwight, 
" were disabled from seeing the nature of the purposes, which 
the revolutionists had in view, and of the characters which were 
exhibited on this singular stage. In the agitation and amaze- 
ment excited in all men, few retained so steady opticks as to 
discern, without confusion, the necessary consequence of this 
stupendous shock." 

Infidelity w^as also greatly extended, at this time, by the w i i- 
tings of Paine, Godwin, and others, which were industriously 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION, 285 

circulated through the country.* The perspicuous and simple 
style of Paine, his keen powers of ridicule, directed against the 
Bible, and above all, the gratitude which rauhitudes felt for the 
aid his pen had given to our revolution, contributed to impart 
to him a peculiarly powerful influence. His vicious life, how- 
ever, and the horrible enormities, committed by the French 
revolutionists, gave such a fearful comment upon their princi- 
ples, as at length, in a great measure, to bring them into dis- 
credit, and to arrest their growing influence. 

Section XXX vi. gctaat aiiJi dL^mmtxtt. 

These flourished, during this period, beyond all 
former example. In 1797, the exports of the 
United States, of all kinds, amounted to fifty- 
six millions, eight hundred and fifty thousand, 
two hundred and six dollars. The imports 
amounted to seventy-five millions, three hun- 
dred and seventy-nine thousand, four hundred 
and six dollars. Our vessels visited every part 
of the world, and brought wealth and luxuries 
from every country. 

Section XXXVil. ^^VitViitMXt. Aside 
from the importance of agriculture, as furnish- 
ing us with the greatest portion of our food, it 
began now to derive greater consequence, as 

rnisliiiig materials for our manufactures, and, 
still more, as contributing largely to our exports. 
In 1796, it was estimated that three-fourths of 
the inhabitants of the United States, if not a 
greater proportion, w^ere employed in agricultu- 
ral pursuits. 

Section XXX VI II. MXt& UtHf f^atlUtUt:^ 
tUVt^* During this period, manufactures at- 
tracted the attention of government. Mr. Ha- 
milton, secretary of the treasury, made a report 
to congress, on the subject, in which he set forth 



* Godwin's Political Justice, ar.d Faine's Age of Reason, powerfiiUy 
urged on the tide of infidelity. An enormous edition of the latter publica- 
tion was printed in France, and sent to America, to be sold for a few 
pence only : ?,nd where it could act be sokL it wa^ given away. 



286 PERIOD VII....i789....1797 

their importance to the country, and urged the 
policy of aiding them. Since that time, the re- 
venue laws have been framed, with a view to the 
encouragement of manufactures, and their pro- 
motion has been considered as a part of the set- 
tled policy of the United States. Although the 
flourishing state of commerce commanded the 
attention, and absorbed the capital of the coun- 
try, in some degree, to the exclusion of other 
objects, still manufactures made considerable 
progress. 

Section XXXIX. |^ll|)UlatfOn^ The in- 
habitants of the United States, at the close of 
this period, amounted to about five millions. 

Section XL. iStlUtatt0n^ The adoption of 
the federal constitution placed the political af- 
fairs of theUnited States on a permanent basis, 
and since that period, learning has flourished. 

In 1791, the university of Vermont was established at Bur- 
lington ; Williams' College, Massachusetts, in 1793 ; Union 
College, at Schenectady, New-York, and Greenville College, 
Tennessee, in 1794; Bowdoin College, at Brunswick, in Maine, 
1795. An historical society was formed in Massachusetts, in 
1791, and incorporated in 1794. It has published twelve vo- 
lumes of documents, designed to illustrate the past and present 
state of the country. 

XLI. A short time since, we were occupied in considering 
the United States struggling for independence, under Washing- 
ton, as a leader of their armies. Under his guidance, we saw 
them triumpn, and become a free nation. We have also seen 
them, with Washington at the head of the convention, forming 
our excellent constitution. We now see them with Washington 
their chief magistrate, taking their place among the sovereign- 
ties of the earth, and launching forth on the full tide of success- 
ful experiment. 

Under Washington, as our leader, we won our independence; 
formed our constitJition ; established our government. And 
what reward does he ask for services like these ? Does he ask 



WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 287 

a diadem ? Does he lay his hand upon our national treasury ? 
Does he claim to be emperor of the nation that has risen up un- 
der his auspices ? No — although " first in war — first in peace 
— first in the hearts of his countrymen,'' — he sublimely retires 
to the peaceful occupations of rural life, content with the honour 
of having been instrumental in achieving the independence, and 
securing the happiness of his country. 

There is no parallel in history to this ! By the side of Wash- 
ington, Alexander is degraded to a selfish destroyer of his race ; 
Caesar becomes the dazzled votary of power ; and Bonaparte, a 
baffled aspirant to universal dominion. 

Washington has been the theme of eulogy in every nation. 
" His military successes," it has been well said, " were more 
solid than brilliant, and judgment, rather than enthusiasm, regu- 
lated his conduct in battle. In the midst of the inevitable dis- 
order of camps, and the excesses inseparable from civil war, 
humanity always found a refuge in bis tent. In the morning of 
triumph, and in the darkness of adversity, he was alike serene ; 
at all times tranquil as wisdom, and simple as virtue. After 
the acknowledgment of American Independence, when the una- 
nimous suffrages of a free people called him to administer their 
government, his administration, partaking of his character, was 
mild and firm at home ; noble and prudent abroad.* 



lEchiquin^s Letters. 



UNITED STATES. 



mvioXf UKKK. 



Extending from the inauguration of President 
Adajns^ 1 797, ^o the inauguration of Thomas 
Jefferson, as president of the United States, 
1801. 

Section L On the 4th of March, 1797, Mr. 
Adams, in the presence of the senate, of the 
officers of the general and state governments, 
and a numerous concourse of spectators, took 
the oath of office, as president of the United 
States. 

The condition of the country, at the close of 
Washington's admmistration, and the com- 
mencement of Mr. Adams', was greatly im- 
proved from that of 1789, the period at which 
the former entered upon his office. 

At home, a sound credit had been established ; an immense 
floating debt had been funded in a manner perfectly satisfactory 
to the creditors, and an ample revenue had been provided. 
Those difficulties, which a system of internal taxation, on its 
first introduction, is doomed to encounter, were completely re- 
moved ; and the authority of the government was firmly estab- 
lished. 

Funds for the gradual payment of the debt had been provided*, 
a considerable part of it had actually been discharged ; an6 
that system which is now operating its entire extinction, had 
been matured and adopted. The agricultural and commercial 
wealth of the nation had increased beyond all former example. 
The numerous tribes of Indians, on the west, had been taught 
by arras and by justice, to respect the United States and to con 
thiue in peace. 



JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION. 289 

Abroad, the differences with Spain had been accommodated. 
The free navigation of the Mississippi had been acquired, with 
the use cf New-Orleans, as a place of deposit for three years, 
and afterwards, until some equivalent place should be desig- 
nated, .i 

Those causes of mutual exasperation, which had threatened 
to involve the United States in a war with the greatest maritime 
and commercial power in the world, had been removed ; and 
the military posts which had been occupied within their terri- 
tory, from their existence as a nation, had been evacuated. 
Treaties had been formed with Algiers and Tripoli, and no 
captures appear to have been made by Tunis ; so that the 
Mediterranean was opened to American vessels. 

This bright prospect was, indeed, in part, shaded by the dis- 
contents of France. But the causes of these discontents, it had 
been impossible to avoid, without surrendering the right of self- 
govertiment. Such was the situation of the United States at the 
close of Washington's, and the commencement of Adams' admi- 
nistration. 

Section II. Just before Washington retired 
from office, learning that France meditated hos- 
tilities against the United States, by way of de- 
predations on her West India commerce, he had 
recalled Mr. Monroe, then minister to that court, 
and despatched Gen. C. C. Pinckney, minister 
plenipotentiary, to adjust existing differences. 

Immediately upon succeeding to the presi- 
dency, Mr. Adams received intelligence that the 
French republick had announced to Gen. Pinck- 
ney its determination *' not to receive another 
minister from the United States until after the 
redress of grievances,'' &c. 

On the receipt of this intelligence, the pre- 
sident issued his proclamation to convene con- 
gress on the !5th of Jane. In his speech on 
that occasion, having stated the indignity offer- 
ed the United States by France, in refusing to 
receive her minister, the president, in the tone 
of a high-minded and independent American, 
urged congress "to repel this indignity of the 
25 



290 PERIOD VIII....1797....1801. 

French government, by a course which shall 
convince that government and the world that 
we are not a degraded people, humiliated under 
a colonial spirit of fear and a sense of inferiori- 
ty, fitted to be the miserable instruments of fo- 
reign influence, and regardless of national ho- 
nour, character and interest." 

Notwithstanding this language, the president 
still retained a desire for peace. Upon his re- 
commendation, three envoys extraordinary, C. 
C. Pinckney, Elbridge Gerry, and John Mar- 
shall, were appointed to the French republick, 
to carry into effect the pacifick dispositions of 
the United States. 

Section III. For a considerable time, no cer- 
tain intelligence reached the country respecting 
the negotiations at Paris. At length, in the 
winter of 1798, letters were received from the 
American envoys, indicating an unfavourable 
state of things ; and in the spring despatches 
arrived, which announced the total failure of the 
mission. 

Before the French government would acknowledge the envoys, 
money, by way of tribute, was demanded in explicit terms of 
the United States. This being refused, an attempt was next 
made to excite the fears of the American ministers for their coun- 
try and themselves. The immense power of France was paint- 
ed in glowing colours, the humiliation of the house of Austria 
was stated, and the conquest of Britain was confidently antici- 
pated. In the friendship of France alone, they were told, could 
America look for safety. 

During these transactions, occasion was repeatedly taken ta 
ijisult the American government ; open war was continued to be 
urged by the cruisers of France on An.erican commerce; 
and the flag of the United States was a sufficient justification 
for thf^ capture and condemnation of any vessel, over which it 
waved. 

\'ction IV. Perceiving further negotiations 
\o oe in vain, congre^^^ now proceeded to the 



ADAMS' ADMINISTRATIQlt. 291 

adoption of vigorous measures for retaliating 
injuries which had been sustained, and for re- 
pelling still greater injuries which were threat- 
ened. Amongst these measures was the aug- 
mentation of the regular army. 

A regiment of artillerists and engineers was added to the per- 
manent establishment, and the president was authorized to raise 
twelve additional regiments of infantry, and one regiment of ca- 
valry. He was also authorized to appoint officers for a provi- 
sional army, and to receive and organize voluntter corps. 

By the unanimous consent of the senate, Gen. 
Washington was appointed lieutenant-general 
and commander in chief of all the armies raised, 
or to be raised, in the United States. 

Section V. While preparations weie thus 
making for war, indirect pacifick overtures were 
communicated by the French government to the 
president, and a wilhngness expressed to 
accommodate existing differences on reasonable 
terms. 

Solicitous to restore that harmony and good 
understanding, which had formerly existed 
between the two countries, the president listened 
to these overtures, and appointed three envoys, 
Oliver Ellsworth, chief justice of the United 
States, Patrick Henry, then late governour of 
Virginia, and William Vans Murray, minister at 
the Hague, to discuss and settle, by treaty, all 
controversies between the United States and 
France. 

On the arrival of these envoys at Paris, they 
found the government in the hands of Bonaparte, 
who had not been concerned in the transactions 
which had disturbed the peace of the two coun- 
tries. Negotiations were commenced, which 
terminated in a treaty of peace, September 30th, 



292 PERIOD VIII....1797-..180L 

1800, soon after which, the provisional army in 
America was, by order of congress, disbanded. 
Section VL On the 14th of December, 1799, 
Gen. Washington expired at his seat, at Mount 
Vernon, in Virginia, leaving a nation to mourn 
his loss, and to embalm his memory with their 
tears. 

l*he disease, of which Gen. Washington died, was an inflam 
aaatory affection of the windpipe, occasioned by an exposure to 
a light rain,' while attending, the day before, to some improve- 
ments on his estate. 

The disease at its commencement was violent, and medical 
skill was applied in vain. Respiration became more and more 
contracted and imperfect, until half past eleven ©''clock on Sa- 
turday night, when retaining the full possession of his intellect, 
he expired without a groan. 

Believing at the commencement of his complaint, that its con- 
clusion would be mortal, he economized his time in arranging, 
with the utmost serenity, those few concerns which required his 
attention. To his piiysician, he expressed his conviction that 
he was dying ; " but," said he, " I am not afraid to dieP 

On Wednesday, the 1 8th of December, his body was deposit- 
ed in the family vault, attended with military honours, and suit- 
able religious services. 

On the arrival of the news of his death at Philadelphia, Mon- 
day, congress immediately adjourned. On the day succeeding, 
resolutions were adopted expressive of the grief of the members, 
and a committee was appointed to devise a mode by which the 
national feelings should be expressed. 

On the melancholy occasion, the senate addressed to the pre- 
sident, a letter, in which they say ; " Permit us, sir, to mingle 
our tears with yours. On this occasion it is manly to weep. 
To lose such a man, at such a crisis, is no common calamity to 
the world. Our country mourns a father. The Almighty dis- 
sposer of events has taken from us our greatest benefactor and 
ornament. It becomes us to submit with reverence to Him who 
maketh darkness his pavilion. 

" With patriotick pride we review the life of Washington, and 
compare him with those of other countries who have been pre- 
eminent in favour. Ancient and modern names are diminished 
before him. Greatness and guilt have too often been allied ; 
but his fame is whiter than it is brilliant. The destroyers of 
nations stood abashed at the majesty oihis virtues. It reprov-> 



ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION. 293 

ed the intemperance of their ambition, and darkened the splen- 
dour of victory. 

" The scene is closed ; and we are no longer anxious lest 
misfortune should sully his glory. He has travelled on to the 
end of his journey, and carried with him an increasing weight 
of honour. He has deposited it safely where misfortune cannot 
tarnish it ; where malice cannot blast it. Favoured of heaven, 
he departed without exhibiting the weakness of humanity ; mag- 
nanimous in death, the darkness of the grave could not obscure 
his brightness.'' 

The committee, appointed to devise some mode by which to ex- 
press the national feelings, recommended that a marble monument 
be erected by the United States, at the city of Washington, to com- 
memorate the great events of Washington's military and politi- 
cal life ; that a funeral oration be delivered by a member of 
congress ; that the president be requested to write a letter of 
condolence to Mrs. Washington ; and that it be recommended 
to the citizens of the United States, to wear crape on the left 
arm for thirty days. 

These resolutions passed both houses unanimously. The 
whole nation appeared in mourning. The funeral procession 
at the city of Washington was grand and solemn, and the elo- 
quent oration, delivered on the occasion by Gen. Henry Lee, 
was heard with profound attention, and with deep interest. 

Throughout the United States, similar marks of affliction 
were exhibited. Funeral orations were delivered, and the best 
talents devoted to an expression of grief, at the loss of ** the 
man, first in v, ar, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his fel- 
low-citizens." 

Section VII. In 1 800, agreeably to a resolu- 
tion passed in congress in 1790, the seat of go- 
vernment was transferred from Philadelphia to 
the city of Washington, in the District of Co- 
lumbia. 

The District of Colmnbia is a territor}'- of ten miles square. 
It IS about three hundred m;lps from the sen, at the head of tide 
water on the Potomac, which runs through it diagonally, near 
the centre. It was ceded, in 1790, to the United States, by 
Maryland and Virginia, and it is under the immediate govern- 
ment of congress. 

Section VIII. On the 4th of March, 1801, 
Mr. Adams' term of office as president would 
expire. Befoi;e the arrival of the time for a 

25* 



294 PERIOD VIII....1791....1801. 

new election, it had been pretty certainly pre- 
dicted that he could not be re-elected. His 
administration, through the whole course of it, 
had been the subject of much popular clamour, 
especially by the democratick party. But the 
measures which most excited the opposition of 
that party, and which were most successfully 
employed to destroy the popularity of Mr. 
Adams' administration, and to place the go- 
vernment in other hands, were several laws 
passed during his presidency, among which were 
the '' Alien^^ and '' Sedition'''^ laws. 

By the " alien lawP the president was authorized to order 
any ahen, whom " he should judge dangerous to the peace and 
safety of the United States, &c. to depart out of the territory, 
within such time'' as he should judge proper, upon penahy of 
being '• imprisoned for a term not exceeding three years," &;c. 

The design of the " sedition Imo''' so called, was to punish 
the abuse of speech, and of the press. It imposed a heavy pe- 
cuniary fine, and imprisonment for a term of years, upon such 
as should combine or conspire together to oppose any measure 
of government ; upon such as should write, print, utter, pubhsh, 
&c. ^^ any false, scandalous, and. malicious writing against the 
government of the United States, or either house of the congress 
«»f the United States, or the president, &c." 

These acts, together with others for raising a 
standing array, and imposing a direct tax and 
internal duties, with other causes, so increased 
the opposition to Mr. Adams' administration, as 
to prevent his re-election, and greatly to weaken 
the strength of that party to whom he owed his 
elevation to the presidency. 

Section IX. The strife of parties, during the 
term of electioneering, was spirited. On can- 
vassing the votes of the electors for president, 
it was found that Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Burr 
bad each seventy-three votes, Mr. Adams sixty- 
live, and C. C. Pinckney sixty four. As the 
constitution provided that the person having the 



ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION. 295 

greatest number of votes should be president, 
and Mr. Jefterson and Mr. Burr having an equal 
number, it became the duty of the house of re- 
presentatives, voting by States, to decide be- 
tween these two Gentlemen. 

The ballot was taken for several days in suc- 
cession, February, 1801, befoie a choice was 
made. The federalists generally supported Mr. 
Burr ; the democratick party Mr. Jefferson. At 
length, after much political heat and party ani- 
mosity, the choice fell upon the latter, who was 
declared to be elected president of the United 
States for four years, commencing March 4th, 
1801 . Mr. Burr was elected vice-president. 



Section X. ^mmtXU^ The manners of 
the people of the United States underwent no 
marked change during this period. 

Section XI, MCUgf^ll* Although infideli- 
ty does not seem to have made much progress 
in the United States, during this period, it was 
evident that it had taken deep root in many 
minds. 

Infidels, however, were less confident, and less ready to 
avow their sentiments. They stood abashed before the world, 
at the fear fill and blood-chiliing honours which their principles 
had poured out upon France. Their doctrines were, at the 
same time, powerfully refuted by the ablest men both in Eng- 
land and America. At length, they ceased to make proselytes, 
spoke favourably of the Christian religion, generally admitted 
that it was absolutely necessary to good government ; and er- 
rour, with regard to religion, assumed a new form. 

Towards the close of this period, a revival of religion com- 
menced in New-England, and seems to have been the beginning 
of that series of revivals which have since overspread the United 
States. Some sects which had before regarded " revivals of re- 



296 PERIOD VnL...1797....1801. 

ligion*' with suspicion or aversion, became convinced of their 
utility and began to promote them. 

Section XII. Kxutit aiiJ dit^mvxtvtt. 

Trade and commerce were still prosperous, and 
the remarks made in respect to them, under pe- 
riod VII. apply to them during this period. 

1 he exports, in 1801, were ninety-three millions, twenty thou- 
sand five hundred and seventy-three dollars, the imports, one 
bundled and eleven millions, three hundred and sixty-three thou- 
sand hve hundred and eleven dollars. 

Section XIII. itfisJcUltUjrr* Agriculture 
still continued to flourish. 

SecUonXW, ^xt% aiiti JWaiittf awttrfii* 

The gt^neral remarks on the preceding period^ 
relative to this subject, apply, without material 
alteration to this period. 

Section XV. ||0))UUtfOn^ The number 
of inhabitants, at the close of this period, was 
not far from five millions, five hundred thou- 
sand. 

Section XVI. ^jTUCa^tiOn^ We have no- 
thing particular to observe in relation to educa- 
tion. Publick and private schools, however, 
were multiplied as the people increased, and 
as new settlements were made. 

In 1?98, a college was founded at Lexington, Kentucky, call- 
ed the Transylvania University. Middlebury college, in Ver- 
mont, was founded in 1 800. At the commencement of the 1 8th 
century, there was, in New-England but one college completely 
ffunded, but now there were six ; in the colonies south of Con- 
necticut, there was only one, but now there were fifteen or six- 
teen. 



UNITED STATES* 

DISTINGUISHED FOR JEFFERSOn's ADMINISTRATION. 

Extending from the inauguration of President 
Jefferson, 1801, ^o the inauguration of James 
Madison as president of the United States, in 
1809. 

Section I. On the 4th of March, 1801, Mr. 
Jefferson agreeably to the constitution, was regu- 
larly inducted into the office of president of the 
United States. 

At the time of his inauguration, Mr. Jefferson delivered an 
address, expressive of his political opinions, and the principles 
by which he designed to shape his administration. These were 
"Equal and exact justice to all men, of whatever state or per- 
suasion, religious, or political : peace, commerce, and honest 
friendship, with all nations, entangling alliances with none : — 
the support of the State governments in all their rights, as the 
most competent administrations for our doniestick concerns, 
and the surest bulwarks against anti-republican tendencies : — 
the preservation of the general government in its whole constitu- 
tional vigour, as tht sheet anchor of our peace at home, and 
safety abroad : — a jealous care of the right of election by the 
people, a mild and safe^ corrective of abuses which are lopped 
by the sword of revolution where peaceable remedies are unpro- 
vided : — absolute acquiescence in the decisions of the majority, 
the vital principle of republicks, from which is no appeal but to 
force, the vital principle and immediate parent of depotisms : — 
a well disciplined militia, our best reliance in peace, and for the 
first moments of war, till regulars may relieve them : — the supre- 
macy of the civil over the military authority :— economy in the 
publick expense, that labour may be lightly burthened : — the 
honest payment of our debts, and sacred preservation of the 
publick faith : — encouragement of agriculture and of commerce 
as its hand-maid ; — the diffusion of information and arraignment 



298 PERIOD IX....1803..., 1809. 

ot all abuses at the t>ar of publick reason : — freedoto of religion , 
— freedom of the press: — and freedom of person, under the pro- 
tection of the Habeas Corpus, — and trial by juries impartially 
selected." — " These principles/' added Mr. Jefferson, " should 
be the creed of our political faith ; and should we wander from 
them in moments of errour or of alarm, let us hasten to retrace 
our steps, and to regain the road which alone leads to peace, li- 
berty, and safety." 

Section II. The commencement of Mr. Jef- 
ferson's administration was marked by a re- 
moval, from responsible and lucrative offices, of 
a great portion of those v^hose political opinions 
were opposed to his own, on the ground that 
most of the offices at the disposal of the govern- 
ment, had been exclusively bestowed on the ad- 
herents of the opposite party. 

In a reply to a remonstrance of merchants of New-Haven, 
against the removal from office of a federal collector of that 
port, and the appointment of a gentleman of opposite politicks, 
the president formally assigned this as the reason of the «our8« 
he adopted. 

" It would have been to me," said he in that reply, " a cir- 
cumstance of great relief, had I found a moderate participation 
of office in the hands of the majority, (the democratick party.) 
I would gladly have left to time and accident to raise them to 
their just share. But their total exclusion calls for prompter 
correctives. I shall correct the procedure ; but that done, re- 
turn with joy to that state of things, when the only question 
concerning a candidate shall be. Is he honest ? Is he capable ? 
Is he faithful to the constitution ?" 

Section III. Congress met on the 8th of De- 
cember. In his speech at the opening of the 
session, the president recommended the aboli- 
tion of the internal taxes — the repeal of the act 
passed towards the close of Mr. Adams' admi- 
nistration, reorganizing the United States 
courts, and erecting sixteen new judges — and 
an enlargement of the rights of naturalization. 
The debates on these several topicks in both 
houses of congress were extended to great 
length, and displayed much eloquence, argu- 



JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION. 299 

ment, and warmth. The recommendation of 
the president, notwithstanding the opposition, 
prevailed, and bills in accordance therewith 
were passed. 

The internal taxes, from the time of their establishment, had 
been extremely unpopular, with the party, which had elevated 
Mr. Jefferson to the presidency. It was a favourite measure, 
therefore, of his, to procure their abolition. 

The national judicial establishment originally consisted of a 
supreme court, with six judges, who twice a year made a tour of 
the United States in three circuits. Under this arrangement, 
great inconveniences were experienced by the court, the bar, 
and the suitors. The new arrangement in the judicial system, 
and the increase of judges at the close of Mr. Adams' term, 
had excited, in a large portion of the citizens, the hope of a 
more prompt and impartial administration of justice. To that 
portion of the community the repealing act was a painful disap- 
pointment. 

Section IV. In 1802, Ohio was admitted by 
act of congress, as an independent state into the 
Union. 

The state of Ohio derived its name from the river Ohio, 
which sweeps the southeastern border of the state. 

Until 1787, it was inhabited only by Indians, a few Mora- 
vians, and trespassers on lands belonging to the publick. By 
virtue of her charter, the territory was claimed by Virginia, and 
held by her, although the original charter of Connecticut, ex- 
tending west to the Pacific Ocean, included a great part of it. 

In 1781, the legislature of Virginia ceded to the United 
States all her rights to the territory northwest of the river 
Ohio, excepting some few military tracts. In 1788, the first 
settlement was begun at Marietta, under General Rufus Put- 
nam, from New-England. It had been, the year before, erect- 
ed into one district, including the present territories of Michigan, 
Illinois, and Indiana. 

Until 1795, the settlement of Ohio was retarded by constant 
wars with the Indians. But at that time, a general peace with 
the different tribes, being effected by General Wayne, under 
Washington, the population of the territory rapidly increased 
by emigrations from Europe, and still more from New-England. 

Section V. The year 1804 was distinguish- 
ed for an event, which filled a considerable por- 
tion of the American people with great grief 



300 PERIOD IX....1801....18W. 

This was the death of Gen. Hamilton, who fell 
in a duel with Col. Burr, the vice-president of 
the United States. 

Section VI. Mr . Jefferson's first term of of- 
fice ending this year, a new election took place, 
at which he was re-chosen president, and on the 
4th of March again took the oath of office. 
George Clinton of New-York, was elected vice- 
president. 

Section VII. During the year which com- 
menced the second of Mr. Jefferson's presidency, 
a war, which had been continued for several 
years between the United States and Tripoli, 
was concluded, and a treaty of peace negotiated 
by Col. Lear, between the two countries, by 
which the Tripolitan and American prisoners 
were exchanged, and the sum of sixty thousand 
dollars given to the pacha. 

The history of this war deserves a place in these pages. The 
commerce of the United States had been long annoyed by the 
Tripolitan cruisers — many merchantmen had been taken, and 
their crews imprisoned and cruelly treated. 

As early as 1803, a squadron under Com. Preble had been 
sent to the Mediterranean^ to protect the American commerce, 
and to bring the corsairs to submission. During the same year, 
Capt. Bainbridge, in the Philadelphia, joined Com. Preble, and 
in chasing a cruiser into the harbour of Tripoli, grounded his 
vessel, and he and his crew were taken prisoners. 

Shortly after the surrender of the Philadelphia, the Tripoli- 
tans got her afloat, and warped her into the outward harbour. 
In this situation, Lieutenant, afterwards Commodore, Decatur, 
conceived the bold plan of attempting to set her on fire. He 
had the day before captured a small xebec, laden with fruit 
and oil, which was bound to Tripoli ; and having on board the 
Enterprize, which he commanded, an old pilot, who understood 
the Tripolitan language, he suggested his plan to Commodore 
Preble, who approved of it. He would accept of only twenty 
men, although a much greater number volunteered, and but one 
officer, Mr. Morris, a midshipman. With these men, concealed 
in the bottom of the xebec, on the approach of night, he sailed 
for the Philadelphia, taking with him the old pilot. On ap- 



JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION. 301 

preaching the frigate, the xebec was hailed, when the pilot an- 
swered that he had lost his cable and anchor, and begged per- 
mission to make fast to the frigate, until the morning. This, 
the crew refused, but said he might make fast to their stern haw- 
ser, until they sent a boat to the admiral for leave. 

As the boat put off for the shore, Lieutenant Decatur, with hi<; 
brave companions, leaped on board the frigate, and in a few 
minutes swept the deck of every Tripolitan. Of fifty, not one 
reached the shore. The frigate wa« now set on fire, and while 
the flames rose, to spread consternation among the TripoJitans, 
they served to lighten the way for the heroick Decatur and his 
band to go back in safety to the American squadron. Of the 
party, not one was killed, and but one wounded. This was a 
seaman who saved the life of his commander. In the first des- 
perate struggle on board the Philadelphia, Decatur was disarm- 
ed, and fell. A sabre v/as already lifted to strike the fatal blow, 
when this seaman, observing the perikus situation of his officer, 
reached forward, and received the blow of the sabre on his arm. 
In consequence of th.-^ burning of the Philadelphia, the suffer- 
ings of Commodore Bainbridge and his crew, as well as those of 
other Americans in captivity at Tripoli, were greatly increased. 
The accounts of their sufferings, transmitted to the United 
States, excited the sympathy of all classes, and a general cry for 
exertions to effect their deliverance was heard from all parts of 
the union. 

It happened that some time before this, the then reigning 
bashaw of Tripoli, Jussnf, third son of the late bashaw, had 
murdered his father and eldest brother, and proposed to murder 
the second, in order to possess himself of the throne. But the 
latter, Hamet Caramelli, made his escape, and Jussuf, without 
further opposition, usurped the government. 

Hamet took refuge in Egypt, where he was kindh' treated by 
the beys. Here he was, on the arrival of an accredited agent 
of the United States, General Eaton, who revived his almost ex- 
piring hopes of regaining his rightful kingdom. 

General Eaton had been consul for the United States up the 
Mediterranean, and was returning home when he heard of the 
situation of Hamet. Conceiving a plan of liberating the Ame- 
ricans in captivity at Tripoli, by means of the assistance of 
Hamet, and, at the same time, of restoring this exile to i):s 
throne, he advised with Hamet, who readily listened to the pro- 
ject, and gave his co-operation. 

A convention was accordingly entered into between General 
Eaton on the part of the United States, and Hamet, by which 
the latter stipulated much in favour of the Americans, and was 
promised to be restored to his throne. 

26 



302 PERIOD IX. .1801....1809. 

With a small force, consisting of seamen from the American 
squadron, the followers of Harnet, and 'iome Egyptian troops, 
Gen. Edton and Hamet, witli iiicredible toil and suffering, pass- 
ed the desert of Barca, and look possession of Derne, the capital 
of a larg ■ psovirice belonging to the kingdom of Tripoli. The 
forces of ICaton were now so mr.ch increased, and the cause of 
H;iniet htid becon-e so popular, thut the prospect was flattering 
of his being able to reduce the city of Trjj)oli, and of effecting 
th«" bberation of the captives without ransom. 

The' 'sue cesses of Eaton struck the usurper .Tussuf with terrour. 
Trembling for his fate in this juncture, he proposed to Mr. 
Lear, the consul-general of America, then in the Mediterranean, 
to fMitPr into negotiation. Mr. Lear, who was authorized to en- 
ter into negotiation, accepted the proposal, although he knew of 
the srceess of Eaton and Ilamet, and a treaty ensued. Eaton 
imd ilamet were consequently arrested in the prosecution of 
their purpose, and the unfortunate exile failed of his promised 
restoration to the throne. 

In 1805, Hamet visited the United States with the expectation 
of obtaining some remuneration for his services, from America, 
and for her failure in fulfilling her stipulations to him by Gen. 
Eaton, A proposition to this effect was brought before con- 
gress, but after much discussion was rejected. 

Section VIII. During this year, 1805, Michi- 
gan be^came a distinct territorial government of 
the United States. 

The Michigan territory, when first discovered by the whites, 
was inhabited by the Hurons, a tribe of Indians, many of whom 
were converted to Christianity by the Jesuit Missionaries in 
1C4S. About the year 1670, the Hurons were defeated and 
dispersed by the Six Nations, about which time, the French took 
possession of the territory, and built a fort at Detroh, and ano- 
ther at Michillimackinac. Little, however, was dore by the 
French to settle the country. 

/Vt the peace of 1763, the territory was ceded by the French 
to UiCHi ^^ritain, and by the latter to the United States in 1783. 
Until 1787, it remained in the same state of nature, without go- 
vernment, or any considerable settlements ; but at this time, the 
several states who had claims upon it, ceded them to the United 
States, and a territorial government was instituted over all the 
territory, northwest of the Ohio. 

This territory remained under one government until 1800, 
when the present state of Ohio was detached, and made a dis- 
tinct government. This was followed, in 1801, by a further 
separation of Indiana and Illinois ; and, in 1805, Michigan was 



JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION. SOS 

also detached, and was erected into a distinct territorial govern- 
ment. Gen. Hull was appointed by Mr. Jefferson the first go- 
veraour. 

Section IX. In the autumn of 1806, a project 
was detected, at the head of which was Col. Burr, 
for revolutionizing the territory west of the Alle- 
ghanies, and of establishing an independent 
empire there, of which New-Orleans was to be 
the capital, and himself the chief. Towards 
the accomplishment of this scheme, which it af- 
terwards appeared had been some time in con- 
templation, the skilful cunning and intrigue of 
Col. Burr were directed. Happily, however, 
government, being apprised of his designs, ar- 
rested him, while as yet he had few adherents, 
and before his standard was raised. He was 
brought to trial at Richmond on a charge of 
treason committed within the district of Vir- 
ginia ; but no overt act being proved against 
him in that State, he was released. 

In addition to this project, Col. Burr had formed another^ 
which, in case of failure in the first, might be carried on inde- 
pendently of it : — this was an attack ">n Mexico, and the esta- 
blishment of an empire there. " A third object was provided, 
merely ostensible, to wit, the settlement of the pretended pur- 
chase of a tract of country on the Washita, claimed by a Baron 
Bastrop. This was to serve as a pretext for all his prepara- 
tions, an allurement for such followers as really wished to ac- 
quire settlements in that country, and a cover under which to 
retreat in the event of a final discomfiture of both branches of 
his real designs." 

*^ He found at once that the attachment of the western country 
to the present union was not to be shaken; that its dissolution 
could not be effected with the consent of the inhabitants ; and 
that his resources were inadequate, as yet, to effect it by force. 
He determined, therefore, to seize New-Orleans, plunder the bank 
there, possess himself of the military and naval stores, and pro- 
ceed on his expedition to Mfxico." 

" He collected, therefore, from all quarters, where himself or 
his agents possessed influence, all the ardent, restless, desperate, 
disaffected persons who were for an enterprise analagoas to their 



3©4 PERIOD IX....1801....1809. 

characters. He also seduced good, well-meaning citizens, some 
by assurances that he possessed the confidence of the government, 
and was acting under its secret patronage ; and others by offers 
of land in Bastrop's claim in the Washita."* 

Section X. 1806. To understand the sub- 
sequent political history of the United States, 
and those measures of government which were 
taken in relation to foreign powers, it is neces- 
sary to glance at the state of the European na- 
tions, at this period — particularly that of Eng- 
land and France. These two countries were 
now at war with each other, and in their con- 
troversies had involved most of the continental 
powers. Towards the belligerents, America 
was endeavouring to maintain a neutrality, and 
peaceably to continue a commerce with them. 
It was hardly to be expected, however, that 
jealousies would not arise between the contend- 
ing powers in relation to the conduct of America, 
and that events would not occur, calculated to 
injure her commerce, and disturb her peace. 

In addition to these circumstances, a contro- 
Tjiersy had long existed, and continued to exist, 
between the United States and Great Britain, in 
respect to the right of searching neutral ships, 
and impressing seamen. Great Britain claimed 
it as among her prerogatives to take her native 
born subjects, wherever found, for her navy, and 
of searching American vessels for that purpose. 
As yet no adjustment of this controversy had 
been effected. Notwithstanding the remon- 
strances of the American government, the offi- 
cers of the British navy not unfrequently seized 
native born British subjects, who had voluntarily 
enlisted on board our vessels. They also im 



♦ President's Message to Conirress, July 21, 1807. 



JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION, 305 

pressed into the British service some thousands 
of American seamen. 

Section XL May 16th, 1806, the British go- 
vernment issued an order in council, declaring 
the ports and rivers from the Elbe, a river in 
Germany, to Brest, a town of France, to be in a 
state of blockade. By this order, American 
vessels, trading to these and intervening ports, 
were liable to seizure and condemnation. 

Section XII. In the ensuing November, 1806, 
Bonaparte issued his celebrated decree at Ber- 
lin, called the ''Berlin decree,''^ by which all 
the British Islands were declared to be in a 
state of blockade, and all intercourse with them 
was prohibited. This decree violated the treaty 
between the United States and France, and the 
law of nations. 

The following are the principal articles of that decree, 
which related to the obstruction of American commerce : 

1. The British Islands are in a state of blockade. ' 

2. All commerce and correspondence with them is prohibit- 
ed. 

3. No vessel coming directly from England, or her colonies, 
or having been there since the publication of this decree, shall 
be admitted into any port. 

Section XIII. This decree of Bonaparte at 
Berlin, was in part retaliated by the British 
government iii an order of council^ issued Janu- 
nry 7th, 18Q7, by v>4iich all coasting trade with 
France w^as prohibited. 

^' VHiereas the French government has issued certain orders, 
which purport to prohibit the commerce of ail neutral nations 
with his majesty's dominions,"' &c.— ^^ his majesty is pleased to 
order that no vessel shall be permitted to trade from one port 
to another, both which ports shall belong to, or be in possession 
of, France or her allies, or shall be so far under their controul 
as that British vessels may not freely trade thereat," &c. on pain 
of capture and condemnation. 

Section XIV. While measures were thus tak- 
ing by France and England, whose tendency 

^26* 



305 PERIOD IX....1801....1809. 

was to injure American commerce, and to in- 
volve her in a controversy with both, an event 
occurred which filled the American people with 
indignation, and called for immediate executive 
notice. This was an attack upon the American 
frigate Chesapeake, Commodore Barron, off the 
capes of Virginia, by the Britkh frigate Leop- 
pard of fifty guns. The attack was occasioned 
by the refusal of Commodore Barron to surren- 
der several seamen, who had deserted from the 
British armed ship Melampus, a short time pre- 
vious, and had vokuitarily enlisted on board the 
Chesapeake. After crippling the American fri- 
gate, which made no resistance, the commander 
of the Leopard took from her the seamen in 
question, two of whom had been proved to be 
American citizens. 

The persons who deserted from the Melampus, then lying in 
Hampton roads, were William Ware, Daniel Martin, John Stra- 
chan, John Little, and Ambrose Watts. Within a month from 
their escape from the Melampus, the first three of these desert- 
ers offered themselves for enlistment, and were received on 
board the Chesapeake, then at Norfolk, Virginia, preparing for 
sea. 

The Britisli consul at Norfolk, being apprized of this circum- 
stance, wrote a letter to the American naval officer requesting 
these men to be returned. With this request the officer refusing 
to comply, tiie British agent lost no time in endeavouring to 
procure an order from ffcvernment for their surrender. In con- 
sequence of this application, the secretary of the navy ordered 
an examination into the characters and claims of the men in 
question. The required r-xaminalion resulted in proof that 
Ware, Martin, and Strachan, were natives of America. The 
tv/o former had jjrotections, or notarial certificates of their being 
American citizens. Strachan had no vroteciion, but asserted 
that he lost it previously to his escape. Such being the circum- 
stances of the men, the jjovernmont refused to surrender them. 

On the 22d of June, the Chesapeake weighed anchor and 
proceeded to sea. She passed tlie British ships Bellona and 
Melampus, lying in Lynnhaven bay, whose appearance was 
friendly. There were two other ships that lay off Cape He«ry, 



JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION. 307 

one of which, the Leopard, Captain Humphreys, weighed an- 
chor, anti in a few hours came along side che Chesapeake. 

A British officer immediately came on board, and demanded 
the deserters. To this, Capt. Barron replied, that he did not 
know of any being there, and that his duty forbade him to al- 
low of any muster of his crew, except by their own officers. 

During this interview, Barron noticed some proceedings of a 
hostile nature on board the adverse ship, but he could not be 
persuaded that any thing but menace was intended by them. 
After the British officer departed, be gave orders to clear his 
gun deck, and after some time, he directed his men to their 
quarters, secretly, and without beat of drum : still, however, 
without any serious apprehensions of an attack. 

Before these orders could be executed, the Leopard com- 
menced a heavy fire. This fire unfortunately was very destruc- 
tive. In about thirty minutes, the hull, rigging, and spars of 
the Chesapeake were greatly damaged, three men were killed 
and sixteen wounded ; among the latter was the captain him- 
self. Such was the previous disorder, that during this time, the 
utmost exertions were insufficient to prepare the ship for action, 
and the captain thought proper to strike his colours. 

The British captain refused to accept the surrender of the 
Chesapeake, but took from her crev/, Ware, Martin, and Stra- 
chan, the three men formerly demanded as deserters, and a 
fourth, John Wilson, claimed as a runaway from a merchant 
Bhip. 

Section XV. Such was the agitation of the 
publick mind, in consequence of this outrage 
committed on the Chesapeake, that the presi- 
dent conceived himself required to notice the 
iransaction, and by some decisive publick act, 
to show^ how deeply America conceived herself 
to be wounded. Accordingly, on the 2d of July, 
the president issued his proclamation, ordering 
all British armed vessels to leave the waters of 
the United States, and forbidding them to enter, 
until satisfaction for the attack on the Chesa- 
peake should be made by the British govern- 
ment. 

Mr. Munroe was at this time the minister of 
the United States, at the court of St. James. 
Early in September, ho received the instructions 



308 PERIOD IX....1801....1S09. 

of the American government, pertaining to the 
attack on the Chesapeake, and was required to 
demand reparation for that attack, and, as an 
essential part of that reparation, security 
against future impressments from American 
ships. The British minister, Mr. Canning, 
however, protested against conjoining the gene- 
ral question concerning the impressment of 
persons from neutral merchant ships, with the 
particular affray between the Leopard and the 
Chesapeake. 

As Mr. Monroe was not authorized to treat 
these subjects separately, further negotiation 
between these two ministers was suspended, 
and Mr. Rose was appointed, by the British 
government, as a special minister to the United 
States, empowered to treat concerning the par- 
ticular injury complained of, but not to discuss 
the general question of impressing persons from 
merchant ships. 

Section XVI. While such measures were 
taking in England, in relation to the affair of 
the Chesapeake, congress, which had been sum- 
moned before the regular time, by proclamation 
of the president, met on the 27th of October. 

In his message to congress at this time, the president entered 
fully into the state of our relations with Great Britain — informed 
them of a treaty which had been negotiated with the British go- 
vernment, by Messrs. Monroe and Pinckney — but which he 
had rejected, principally because it made no sufficient provision 
on the subject of impressments — stated the affair of the attack 
on the Chesapeake — his proclamation to British armed vessels 
to quit the waters of the United States — his instructions to the 
American minister at London, in relation' to reparation expected 
from the British government, and his expectation of speedily hear- 
ing from England the result of the measures which had been taken. 

Section AVII. On the 11th of November, 
were issued at London, the celebrated British 
Orders in Council^ retaliatory upon the French 



JEFFERSON*S ADMINISTRATION. 3Q9 

government for the Berlin decree of November, 
1806. By these orders in council, France and 
her allies ; all nations at w^ar with Great Britain , 
and all places from which the British flag is ex- 
cluded, were declared to be under the same re- 
strictions in point of trade and navigation, as if 
the same were in a state of blockade. 

Section XVIII. Before the arrival of Mr. 
Rose, congress was sedulously employed in con- 
sidering the state of the nation, and in making 
provision for putting the country in a posture of 
defence. Acts passed, appropriating one mil- 
lion of dollars to be employed by the presi- 
dent in equipping one hundred thousand of the 
national militia ; eight hundred and fifty- two 
thousand five hundred dollars, for building one 
hundred and eighty-eight gun-boats; one mil- 
lion of dollars, for building, repairing, and com- 
pleting fortifications, and for raising six thou- 
sand six hundred men, infantry, riflemen, artil- 
lery, and dragoons, as an addition to the stand- 
ing army. On the 22d of December, an act 
passed, laying an embargo on all vessels within 
the jurisdiction of the United States. 

Section XIX. On the 17th of December, Bo- 
naparte, by way of retaliating the British orders 
in council, issued a decree, called *' the Milan 
decree^'''' declaring every vessel denationalized 
which shall have submitted to a search by a Bri- 
tish ship; and every vessel a good prize, which 
shall sail to or from Great Britain, or any of 
its colonies, or countries, occupied by British 
troops. 

Section XX. Mr. Rose arrived in America 
on the 25th of December. The American minis- 
ter was soon after informed, that he, Mr. Rose, 



3110 PERIOD lX....1801....18aO. 

was expressly forbidden by his government to 
make any proposal, touching the great subject 
of complaint, so long as the president's procla- 
mation of July 2d, excluding British armed ves- 
sels from the waters of the United States, 
should be in force. . 

For a time, the president refused to annul this 
proclamation till the atonement was not only 
solemnly offered, but formally accepted ; but in 
order to elude this difficulty, he finally agreed to 
revoke his proclamation, on the day of the date 
of the act, or treaty, by which reparation should 
!>e made for the recent violence. This conces- 
>^ion, however, was built on two conditions ; first, 
the terms of reparation which the minister was 
charged to offer, must be previously made 
known; and, secondly, they must be such as by 
the president sliould be accounted satisfactory. 

But as the British minister declinod to olier, 
or even to mention, the redress of which he was 
the bearer, till the American prociamaTion w^s 
recalled, and the president deeming its recall 
inexpedient, the controversy, for the present, 
closed. 

The controversy respecting the CV>esapeake was Pnally ad- 
justed in November, 1811,, at which time the British minister 
communicated to the secretary of state, that the attack on the 
Chesaoeake was unauthorized bv his majesty's government— 
that the officer nt that time in command on the American coast 
bad been recalled — that the men taken from the Chesapeake 
should be restored — and that suitable pecuniary provision should 
be made for those who suffered in the attack, and for the fami- 
lies of the seamen that fell. To these propositions the presi- 
dent acceded. 

Section XXI. The difficulties with France 
and England, regarding commerce, still conti- 
nuing, and the existing embargo having failed to 
ooerce these powers as was anticipated, into an 



JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION. 311 

acknowledgment of our rights — a more com- 
plete stop to our intercourse with them was 
deemed advisable by congress. Accordingly, o-n 
the 1st of March, congress interdicted, by law, 
all trade and intercourse with France and Eng- 
land. 

Section XX 11. Mr. Jefterson's second term 
of office expired on the 3d of March. Having 
previously declined a re-election, James Madi- 
son was chosem president, and George Clinton 
vice-president. 



Section XXIII. JWaiinetSl* The bitter- 
ness of party spirit which had now raged in the 
United States for some years, began to have a 
visible effect upon society. It interrupted, to nc^ 
small extent, the general harmony, and even re- 
strained the intercourse of friends and neigh- 
bourhoods. The strife for power, also introdu- 
ced a disposition to intrigue ; political cunning 
became fashionable, and political duplicity lost 
much of its deformity. These things necessa- 
rily affected the state of manners. They with- 
drew tlie finger of derision, w4iich used to point 
at meanness of all kinds, and blunted that love 
of honour, and manliness of conduct, which ex- 
isted before. Cunning began to take the place 
of wisdom ; professions answered instead of 
deeds; and duplicity stalked forth with the 
boldness of integrity. 

Section XXIV. Hrllgieil* Powerful revi- 
vals of religion pervaded the country during this 
period, and tended strongly to prevent open in- 



312 PERIOD 1X....1801....1809. 

fidelity, and to check the tide of pollution which 
was invisibly spread over the land. 

Section XXV. Kta&e anlT (iLommtvtt. 

Trade and commerce made great advances 
about the year 1803. The European powers 
being involved in war, and the United States re- 
maining neutral, our vessels carried to Europe, 
not only the produce of our own country, but 
also the produce of other countries. This is 
usually called the carrying trade, and was very 
profitable to the country. 

In 1805, 6, and 7, our average annual exports amounted to 
one hundred and two millions, five hundred and sixty-seven 
thousand, four hundred and fifty-four dollars, of which forty-four 
millions, eight hundred and sixty-three thousand, five hundred 
and seventeen dollars, were for domestick produce, and fifty- 
seven millions, seven hundred and one thousand, nine hundred 
and thirty-seven dollars, for foreign produce. The annual 
average of imports during these three years, amounted to about 
one hundred and forty millions of dollars ; a large proportion 
of the articles, forming this amount, were re-exported to the West 
Indies, South America, and elsewhere. 

After the year 1807, the commercial restrictions laid by 
France and England, began to curtail our trade, and the em- 
bargo, imposed at the close of the same year, by our own govern- 
ment, interrupted it still more esentially. 

Section XXVI. affriCUittltT. Agriculture, 
during a part of this period, received great en- 
couragement from our foreign trade. Europe 
being involved in contentions, the people had 
little leisure there to cultivate the soil; they 
were therefore supplied from other countries, 
and the United States furnished them with a 
great amount, and were thence deriving great 
profits, when the commercial restrictions inter- 
rupted the trade. 

The first merino sheep were introduced into the country, in 
1802, by Robert R. Livingston, and the same year, a greater 
number, one hundred, by Geti. Humphreys, then late minister 



JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION. 31S 

to Spain. Great attention was paid to the breeding of them, 
and they are now numerous in the United States. 

Section XXVII. ^ttg atiO M^tiiifUt- 

tUVtU* Arts and manufactures still progressed. 

Section XXVIII. ^OJIUlatiOII. The popu^ 
lation of the United States, at the close of Mr. 
Jefferson's administration, was about seven mil- 
lions. 

SectionXXlX. ^WtUtiOn^ The enlightened 
views respecting the importance of general in- 
formation, entertained before, continued to pre- 
vail. New literary and scientifick publications 
were commenced; more enlightened methods 
of instruction were adopted; academies were 
multiplied; colleges founded; and theological 
seminaries liberally endowed. 

A theological seminary was founded at Andover, Massachu- 
setts, in 1808. The amount, which has been contributed for 
its permanent use, and which was given by six families, is more 
than three hundred thousand dollars. This sum inciudes the 
permanent fund, library, and publick buildings. In 1822, the 
officers were four professors, and the number of students, one 
hundred and thirty-two. The library contains about five thou- 
sand volumes. A majority of the students are supported in 
whole, or in part, by charity. 

27 



UNITED STATES. 



DISTINGUISHED FOR MADISON's ADMINISTRATION, 
AND THE LATE WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIN, 

Extending from the inauguration of President 
Madison^ 1809, to the inauguration of James 
Monroe^ as president of the United States, 
1817. 

Section I. On the 4th of March, 1809, Mr. 
Madison was inducted into the office of president 
of the United States, according to the form pre- 
scribed by the constitution. 

The situation of the United States, on the 
accession of Mr. Madison to the presidency, 
was in several respects gloomy and critical. 
The two great powers of Europe, France and 
England, were still at war, and were continuing 
to array against each other the most violent 
commercial edicts, both in contravention of the 
laws of nations, and of their solemn treaties ; 
and calculated to injure and destroy the com- 
merce of nations desirous of preserving a neu- 
trality. America was also further suffering un- 
der the restrictions of commerce, imposed by 
her own government. Every effort to secure 
the due observance of her rights, by the con- 
tending powers, had hitherto failed, and the sad 
alternative was presenting itself to the American 
people, either to suffer the evils growing out of 
foreign and domestick restrictions, or to take up 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 315 

arms, and risk the consequence of a war with 
the belligerents. 

Section II. Previously to the adjournment of 
the last congress, under Mr. Jefferson, an act 
passed, as already noticed, 1st of March, re- 
pealing the then existing embargo, and inter- 
dicting commercial intercourse with France and 
Great Britain. Should either of these powers, 
however, revoke their edicts, the president was 
authorized to renew the intercourse. 

Apiil 18th, the British minister, Mr. Erskine, 
informed the secretary of state, Mr. Smith, that 
his majesty's government, considering the non- 
intercourse act, passed March 1st, as having 
produced an equality in the relations of the two 
belligerent powers with respect to the United 
States, would be willing to rescind the orders 
in council of January and November, 1807, so 
far as it respected the United States, provided 
the president would issue a proclamation for the 
renewal of intercourse with Great Britain. This 
proposal was readily accepted. The British 
minister, in consequence of this acceptance, stat- 
ed himself authorized to declare that the above 
orders in council would be withdrawn as it re- 
spected the United States, on the succeeding 
10th of June. A proclamation by the president 
soon after followed, renewing the intercourse 
with Great Britain, from and after that time. 

This event produced the highest satisfaction 
throughout the country ; but was speedily fol- 
lowed by a disappointment as great. The 
British government denied the authority of Mr. 
Erskine, to enter into any such stipulations, and 
refused its ratification. On learning this refusal, 
the president issued his proclamation, August 



Sl5 PERIOD X ..1809,„,1817. 

10th, renewing the non-intercourse with Great 
Britain. 

Section III. Early in September, Mr. Jackson 
arrived at Washington, as successor of Mr. 
Erskine. A correspondence was soon com- 
menced between this minister and the secretary 
of state, which, after continuing several weeks, 
without adjusting any differences between the 
two countries, was suddenly closed, by the pre- 
sident, on account of an alleged insult on the 
part of Mr. Jackson. 

In the course of correspondence with the secretary, Mr. 
Jackson had repeatedly asserted that the American executive 
could not but know from the powers exhibited by Mr. Erskine, 
that in the above stipulations he had transcended those powers, 
and waa therefore acting without the authority of his govern- 
ment. This was deeiped by the executive equivalent to a de- 
claration, that the American government did know that Mr. 
Erskine was exceeding his powers. The British minister de- 
nied the legitimacy of such an inference — but the executive, re- 
garding his language as reflecting upon the honour and integrity 
of the American government, closed the correspondence — soon 
after which, Mr. Jackson was recalled, but without the censure 
of his government. 

Section l\, 1810. On the 23d of March, "Bo- 
naparte issued a decree, usually called the 
'- Rambouillet decree," designed to retaliate the 
act of congress, passed March 1st, 1809, which 
forbade French vessels entering the ports of the 
United States. By the above decree, all Ame- 
rican vessels and cargoes, arriving in any of the 
ports of France, or of countries occupied by 
French troops, were ordered to be seized and 
condemned. 

Section V. On the 1st of May, congress 
passed an act, excluding British and French 
armed vessels from the waters of the United 
States ; but, at the same time, providing, that in 
ease either of the above nations should modify 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 317 

its edicts before the third of March, 1811, so 
that they should cease to violate neutral com- 
merce, of which fact the president was to give 
notice by proclamation, and the other nation 
should not, within three months after, pursue a 
similar step, commercial intercourse with the 
former might be renewed, but not with the 
latter. 

Section VI. In consequence of this act of the 
American government, the French minister, the 
Duke of Cadore, at Paris, informed the Ameri- 
can minister, Mr. Armstrong, then in France, 
that the Berlin and Milan decrees were revoked, 
and that, from and after the 1st of November, 
they would cease to have effect. But, at the 
same time, it was subjoined, that it was " un- 
derstood, that, in consequence of this declara- 
tion, the English shall revoke their orders in 
council, &c." About the same time it was an- 
nounced that the Rambouillet decree had also 
been rescinded. 

Although the condition subjoined to the 
Duke of Cadore's declaration rendered it doubt- 
ful whether the Berlin and Milan decrees would 
in fact cease to take effect after the 1st of No- 
vember, the president issued his proclamation 
on the 2d of that month, declaring that those 
decrees were revoked, and that intercourse be- 
tween the United States and France might be 
renewed. 

Section VII. While the affairs of America, in 
relation to the belligerents, were in this posture, 
an unhappy engagement took place. May 1811, 
between the American frigate President, com- 
manded by Capt. Rogers, and a British sloop 
of war, the Little Belt, commanded by Capt. 

27* 



^18 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

Bingham The attack was commenced by the 
latter vessel, without provocation, and, in the 
rencontre, suffered greatly in her men and rig- 
ging. 

A onurt of inquiry was ordered on the conduct of Captain 
Rogers, which decided that it had been satisfactorily proved to 
the court, that Capt. Rogers hailed the Little Belt first — that 
his hail was not satisfactorily answered — that the Little Belt 
fired the first gun — and that it was without previous provoca- 
tion or justifiable cause, &c. &c. 

Section VIII. Congress was assembled by 
proclamation on the 5th of November. In his 
message at the opening of the session, the pre- 
sident indicated the expectation of hostilities 
with Great Britain at no distant period, since 
her orders in council, instead of being with- 
drawn, were, when least to have been expected, 
put into more rigorous execution. 

^' I must now add," continues the president in his message, 
" that the period has arrived which claims from the legislative 
guardians of the national rights, a system of more ample pro- 
vision for maintaining them." — " With" such full " evidence 
oi the hostile inflexibility" of Great Britain, " in trampling on 
rights which no independent nation can relinquish, congress 
will feel the duty of putting the United States into an armour 
and an attitude demanded by the crisis, and corresponding with 
the national spirit and expectations." 

On the 29th, the committee on foreign rela- 
tions presented their report, in which, adopting 
the language of the president's message, they 
strongly recommended, '' That the United 
States be immediately put into an armour and 
attitude demanded by the crisis, and corres- 
ponding with the national spirit and expecta- 
tions." Bills agreeable to this recommenda- 
tion passed congress preparatory to a state of 
hostilities, among which was one for raising 
twenty-live thousand men. 

Section IX. In December, the president com- 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 319 

municated to congress an official account of the 
battle of " Tippacanoe^^ — near a branch of the 
Wabash — fought November 7th, between an 
army under Gen. Harrison, governor of the In- 
diana territory, and a large body of Indians, in 
which the latter were defeated. 

The attack was commenced by the Indians about four o'clock 
in the morning, while the army of Harrison were in a measure 
unprepared. But notwithstanding this disadvantage, after a 
hard fought action, the Indians were repulsed with a loss of 
nearly seventy killed, and upwards of a hundred wounded. 
The loss of the Americans was severe, being, according to offi- 
cial return, one hundred and eighty-eight in killed and wounded. 

Section H, During the following year, 1812, 
Louisiana was admitted into the union as a so- 
vereign state. 

Until the year 1811, Louisiana comprehended that vast tract 
of country which was ceded to the United States by France, in 
1803. At that time, however, the Territory of Orleans, which 
was then u distinct territorial government, assumed the name of 
Louisiana, and was admitted the following year as a state into 
the Union ; since which time, the remaining portion of original 
Louisiana has received di&tinct denominations. 

Louisiana was first discovered in 1541, by Ferdinand de Soto. 
In 1683, Monsieur de la Salle, an enterprising Frenchman, 
sailed up the Mississippi a considerable distance, and named 
the country Louisiana, in honour of Louis XIV. A French 
settlement was begun in 1699, by M. d'lbberville, in Lower 
Louisiana, near the mouth of the river Perdido. The progress 
of the colony was slow. In 1712, although twenty-five hundred 
emigrants had arrived, only four hundred whites and twenty ne- 
groes were alive. 

About this time, the French government made a grant of the 
country to M. de Crozat for a term of ten years ; but after 
five years he relinquished his patent to the Mississippi company. 
In the same year, 1717, the city of Orleans was founded. 

By the treaty of 1763, all Louisiana east of the Mississip- 
pi, was ceded to England, together with Mobile, and all the 
possessions of France in that quarter. About the same time, 
the possessions of France west of the Mississippi were secretly 
ceded to Spain. After the cession to Great Britain, that part 
of the territory which lay west of the Mississippi received the 
•)ame of West Florida. On the breaking out of the revolution- 



329 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

ary war, Spain, after considerable hesitation, took part with the 
United States, incited, probably, by the hope of regaining her 
possessions east of the Mississippi. In 1779, Galvoy, the go- 
vernour of Louisiana, took possession of Baton Rouge ; and the 
other settlements of the English in Florida surrendered succes- 
sively. By the treaty of 1783, the Mississippi was made the 
western boundary of the United States from its source to the 
31st degree of latitude, and following this line to the St. Mary's. 
By a treaty of the same date, the Floi idas were ceded to Spain 
without any specifick boundaries. This omission led to a con- 
troversy between the Unhed States and Spain, which nearly 
terminated in hostilities. By a treaty with Spain, however, in 
1795, boundary lines were amicably settled, and New-Orleans 
was granted to American citizens as a place of deposit for their 
effects for three years and longer, unless some other place of 
equal importance should be assigned. No other place being as- 
signed within that time, New-Orleans continued to be used as 
before. 

In 1 800, a secret treaty was signed at Paris, by the plenipo- 
tentiaries of France and Spain, by which Louisiana was guaran- 
teed to France, and, in 1801, the cession was actually made. 
At the same time, the Spanish intendant of Louisiana was in- 
structed to make arrangements to deliver the couuiiy to the 
French commissioners. In violation of the treaty of Spain with 
the United States, the intendant, by his proclamation of Octo- 
ber, 1802, forbade American citizens any longer to deposit 
merchandize in the port of New-Orleans. Upon receiving in- 
telligence of this prohibition, great sensibility prevailed in con- 
gress, and a proposition was made to occupy the place by force ; 
but after an animated discussion the project was rehnquished, 
and negotiations with France were commenced by Mr. Jeffer- 
son, for the purchase of the whole country of Louisiana, which 
ended in an agreement to that effect, signed at Paris, April 30th, 
1803, by which the United States were to pay to France fifteen 
millions of dollars. Early in December, 1803, the commission- 
ers of Spain delivered possession to France ; and on the 20th 
of the same month, the authorities of France duly transferred 
the country to the United States. Congress had provided for 
this event, and under their act, William C. C. Claiborne was 
appointed governour. By an act of March, 1804, that part of 
the ceded country which lay south of the parallel of thirty-three 
degrees was separated from the rest, and called the Territory 
of Orleans. In 1811, this district was erected into a state, and 
in 1812, was admitted into the Union by the name of Louis- 
iana, 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 321 

Section XI. On the 3d of April, 1812, con- 
gress passed an act laying an embargo for 
ninety days on all vessels within the jurisdiction 
of the United States, agreeably to a recommen- 
dation of the president. This measure, it was 
understood, was preparatory to a war with 
Great Britain, which the executive would soon 
urge upon congress to declare. 

Section XII. On the 4th of June, 1812, a bill 
declaring war against Great Britain, passed the 
house of representatives, by a majority of seven- 
ty-nine to forty-nine. After a discussion of this 
bill in the senate till the 17th, it passed that 
body also, by a majority of nineteen to thirteen, 
and the succeeding day, 18th,* received the sig- 
nature of the president. 

The principal grounds of war was set forth in 
a message of the president to congress, June 1st, 
and was further explained by the committee on 
foreign relations in their report on the subject 



* Tlie following are the orders in council, French decrees, and the con- 
sequent acts of the American government, with their respective dates, pre- 
sented in One vievr. 

1806, May 16th, British blockade from the Elbe to Brest. 
" Nov. 21st, Berlin decree. 

1807, Jan. 6th, Britisli order in council prohibiting the coasting trade. 
" Nov. 11th, The celebrated British orders in council. 

'* Dec. 17th, Milan decree. 

" Dec. 22d, American embargo. 

1809, March 1st, Non-intercourse v/ith Great Britain and France, esta- 

blished by congress. 
" April 10th, Mr. Erskine's negotiation, which opened the trade 

with England. . 
" June 19th, Non-intercourse with Great Britain. 

1810, March 18th, Rambouillet decree. 

" May 1st, Act of congress conditionally opening the trade with 

England and France. 
" Not. 2d, President's proclamation declaring the French decrees t» 

be rescinded. 
1812, April 4th, American embargo. 
" June 18th, Declaration of war by the United States agamijt Great 

Britain, 



^22 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

of the message, were summarily — The impress- 
ment of American seamen by the British; the 
blockade of her enemies' ports, supported by 
no adequate force, in consequence of which, the 
American commerce had been plundered in 
every sea, and the great staples of the country 
cut off from their legitimate markets, and the 
British orders in council. 

On these grounds, the president urged the declaration of war. 
In unison with the recommendation of the president, the com- 
mittee on foreign relations concluded their report as follows : 

" Your committee, believing that the freeborn sons of America 
are worthy to enjoy the liberty which their fathers purchased at 
the price of much blood and treasure, and seeing by the mea- 
sures adopted by Great Britain, a course commenced and per- 
sisted in, which might lead to a loss of national character and 
independence, feel no hesitation in advising resistance by force, 
in which the Americans of the present day will prove to the 
enemy, and the world, that we have not only inherited that li- 
berty which our fathers gave us, but also the will and power to 
maintain it. Relying on the patriotism of the nation, and con- 
fidently trusting that the Lord of Elosts will go with us to battle 
in a righteous cause, and crown our efforts with success — ^your 
committee recommend an immediate appeal to arms." 
► Against this declaration of war, the minority in the house of 
representatives, among which were found the principal part of 
the delegation from New-England, in an address to their consti- 
tuents, solemnly protested, on the ground that the wrongs of 
which the United States complained, although in some respects 
grievous, were not of a nature, in the present state of the world, 
to justify war, or such as war would be likely to remedy. On 
the subject of impressment, they urged that the question between 
the two countries had once been honourably and satisfactorily 
settled, in the treaty negotiated with the British court by Messrs. 
Monroe and Pinckney, and although that treaty had not been 
ratified by Mr. Jefferson, the arrangements might probably again 
be made. In relation to the second cause of war — the blockade 
of her enemies' ports without an adequate force — the minority 
replied that this was not designed to injure the commerce of the 
United States, but was retaliatory upon France, which had taken 
the lead in aggressions upon neutral rights. In addition, it was 
said, that, as the repeal of the French decrees had been official- 
ly announced, it was to be expected that a revocation of the or- 
ders in council would soon follow. 



MADISON'S ADMINSITRATIOlf. 323 

In conclusion of the protest, the minority spoke as follows : 

" The undersigned cannot refrain from asking what are the 
United States to gain by this war ? Will the gratification of 
some privateersmen compensate the nation for that sweep of our 
legitimate commerce by the extended marine of our enemy, 
which this desperate act invites ? Will Canada compensate the 
middle States for New-York ; or the western States for New- 
Orleans ? Let us not be deceived. A war of invasion may in- 
vite a retort of invasion. When we visit the peaceable, and to 
us innocent colonies of Great Britain with the horrours of war, 
can we be assured that our own coa^t will not be visited with 
like horrours. 

" At a crisis of the world, sut/i as the present, and under im- 
pressions such as these, the undersigned could not consider the 
war into which the United States have iu secret been precipi- 
ated, as necessary, or required by any moral duty, or any poli- 
tical expediency." 

As a difference of views respecting the war, which had now 
been declared, prevailed in congress, so the country generally 
was divided into two opposite parties respecting it. The friends 
of the administration universally commending, and its opposers 
as extensively censuring and condemning the measure. By the 
former, the war was strenuously urged to be unavoidable and 
just ; by the latter, with equal decision, it was pronounced to be 
impolitick, unnecessary, and unjust. 

Section XIII. The military establishments 
of the United States, upon the declaration of 
war, were extremely defective. Acts of congress 
permitted the enlistment of twenty-five thousand 
men, but few enlisted. The president was au- 
thorized to raise fifty thousand volunteers, and 
to call out one hundred thousand militia, for the 
purpose of defending the sea-coast and the fron- 
tiers. But the want of proper officers was now 
felt, as the ablest revolutionary heroes had paid 
the debt of nature. Such was the situation of 
things at the commencement of hostilities. 

Section XTV. August 16th, Gen. Hull, go- 
vern our of Michigan, who had been sent at the 
head of about two thousand five hundred men 
to Detroit, with a view of putting an end to In- 



324 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

dian hostilities in that country, surrendered his 
army to Gen. Brock, without a battle, and with 
it the fort at Detroit. 

The sensations produced by this occurrence throughout the 
United States, and particularly in the western country, can 
scarcely be described. So entirely unprepared was the publick 
mind for this extraordinary event, that no one could believe it 
to have taken place until communicated fron an official source. 

In his official despatch, Hull took grejr oains to free his con- 
duct from censure. Among the reasons i .r his surreHder, and 
those which determined him to that course, he assigned the want 
of provision to sustain the siege, the expected reinforcements of 
the enemy, and the savage ferocity of the Indians, should he ul- 
timately be obliged to capitulate. 

The government, however, not being satisfied with his excuses, 
©rdered a court martial, before which he was charged with trea- 
son, cowardice, and unofficerlike conduct. On the first charge 
the court declined giving an opinion : on the two last he was 
sentenced to death ; but was recommended to mercy in conse- 
quence of his revolutionary services, and his advanced age. 
The sentence was remitted by the president ; but his name was 
ordered to be struck from the rolls of the army. 

Section XV. About the middle of August, 
that series of splendid naval achievements, for 
which this war was distinguished, was com- 
menced by Capt. Isaac Hull, of the United 
States' frigate Constitution, who captured the 
British frigate Guerriere, commanded by Capt. 
Dacres. 

The American frigate was superiour in force only by a few 
guns, but the difference bore no comparison to the disparity of 
the conflict. The loss of the Constitution was seven killed, 
and seven wounded, while that on board the Guerriere was 
fifteen killed, and sixty-three wounded, among the latter was 
Capt. Dacres. The Constitution sustained so little injury that 
she was ready for action the succeeding day. But the British 
frigate was so much damaged that she was set on fire and burnt. 

Section XVI. Upon the declaration of war, 
the attention of the American general was turned 
towards the invasion of Canada, for which eight 
or ten thousand men, and considerable military 
stores were collected at different points along 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION, 32i? 

the Canada line. Skilful officers of the navy 
were also despatched for the purpose of arming 
vessels on Lake Erie, Ontario, and Champlain, 
if possible to gain the ascendency there, and to 
aid the operations of the American forces. 

The American troops were distributed into 
three divisions — One under Gen. Harrison, 
called the North Western army ; a second un- 
der Gen. Stephen Van Rensellaer, at Lewis- 
towti, called the army of the Centre ; and a 
third under the commander in chief, Gen. Dear- 
born, in the neighbourhood of Piattsburg and 
Greenbush, called the army of the North, 

Section XVII. Early on the morning of the 
13th of October, 1812, a detachment of about 
one thousand men, from the army of the Centre, 
crossed the river Niagara, and attacked the 
British on (iueenstown heights. This detach- 
ment, under the command of Col. Solomon Van 
Rensellaer, succeeded in dislodging the ene- 
my—but not being reinforced by the militia 
from the American side, as was expected, they 
^vere ultimately repulsed, and were obliged to 
surrender. The British Gen. Brock was killed 
during the engagement. 

The forces designated to storm the heights, were divided into 
two cohimns : one of three hundred miliiia, under Col. Van 
Rensellaer, the other of three hundred regulars, under Col. 
Christie. These werfr to be followed by Col. Fenwick's artille- 
rj', and then the other troops in order. 

Much embarrassment was experienced by the boats from the 
eddies, as well iis by the shot of the enemy, in cro^ising (he river. 
Col. Van Rensellaer led the van, and landed first with one hun- 
dred men. Scarcely had he leaped from the boat, v/hen he re- 
ceived four severe wounds. Being, however, able to stand, he 
ordered his officers to move with rapidity and storm the fort 
This service was gallantly performed, and the enemy were dri- 
ven down the hill in every direction. 

Both parties were now reinforced — the Americans by regulars 
28 



326 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

and militia — the British by the forty-ninth regiment, consisting 
of six hundred regulars, under Gen. Brock. Upon this, the con- 
flict was renewed, in which Gen. Brock, and his aid, Captain 
M'Donald, fell almost in the same moment. After a desperate 
engagement, the enemy were repulsed, and the victory was 
thought complete. 

Gen. Van Rensellaer now crossed over, for the purpose of 
fortifying the heights, preparatory to another attack, should the 
repulsed enemy be reinforced. This duty he assigned to Lieut. 
Totten, an able engineer. 

But the fortune of the day was not yet decided. At three 
o'clock in the afternoon, the enemy, being reinforced by several 
hundred Chippewa Indians, rallied, and again advanced, but 
were a third time repulsed. At this moment. Gen. Van Ren- 
sellaer, perceiving the mihtia on the opposite side embarking 
but slowly, hastily recrossed the river, to accelerate their move- 
ments. But what was his chagrin, on reaching the American 
side, to hear more than twelve hundred of the militia positively 
refuse to embark. The sight of the engagement had coo. a 
that ardour which, previously to the attack, the commander 
in chief could scarcely restrain. While their countrymen were 
nobly struggling for victory, they could remain idle spectators 
of the scene. All that a brave, resolute, and benevolent com- 
mander could do. Gen. Van Rensellaer did — he urged, entreat- 
ed, commanded, but it was all in vain. Eight hundred British 
soldiers, from Fort George, now hove in sight, and pressed on to 
renew the attack. The Americans, for a time, continued to 
struggle against this force, but were finally obliged to surrender 
themselves prisoners of war. 

The number of American troops killed amounted to about 
sixty, and about one hundred were wounded. Those that sur- 
rendered themselves prisoners of war, including the wounded, 
were about seven hundred. The loss of the British is unknown, 
but it must have been severe. 

Although the issue of this battle was unfortunate, seldom has 
American valour shone more conspicuously, or a victory been 
relinquished with more reluctance. Had but a small part of the 
" idle men" passed over at the critical moment, when urged by 
their brave commander, revolutionary history can tell of few 
nobler achievements than this would have been. 

Section XVIII. On the 17th of October, an- 
other naval victory was achieved over an enemy 
decidedly superiour in force, and under circum- 
stances the most favourable to him. This was 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 327 

the capture of the brig Froliek, of twenty-two 
guns, by the sloop of war Wasp. 

Captain Jones had returned from France two weeks after the 
declaration of war, and on the 13th of October, again put to sea. 
On the I7th, he fell in with six merchant ships, under convoy 
of a brig, and two ships, armed with sixteen guns each. The 
brig, which proved to be the Froliek, Capt. vVhinyates, drop- 
ped behind, while the others made sail. At half past eleven, 
the action began by the enemy's cannon and musketry. In five 
minutes, the main-top-mast was shot away, and falling down, 
with the main-top-sail yard across the larboard fore and fore- 
top-sail, rendered her head yards unmarkageable, during 
the rest of the action. In two minutes more, her gaff, and 
raizen top-gallant-mast were shot away. The sea being ex- 
ceedingly rough, the muzzles of the Wasp's guns were some- 
times under water. 

The English fired as their vessel rose, so that their shot was 
t^viier thrown away, or touched only the rigging of the Ameri- 
cans ; the Wasp, on the contrary, fired as she sunk, and every 
time struck the hull of her antagonist. The fire of the Froliek 
was soon slackened, and Captain Jones determined to board 
her. As the crew leaped on board the enemy's vessel, their 
surprise can scarcely be imagined, as they found no person on 
deck, except three officers and the seaman at the wheel. The 
deck was slippery with blood, and presented a scene of havock 
and ruin. The officers now threw down their swords in sub- 
mission, and Lieut. Biddle, of the Wasp, leaped into the rig- 
ging, to haul down the colours, which were still flying. Thus, 
in forty-three minutes, ended one of the most bloody conflicts 
recorded in naval history. The loss, on board the Froliek, was 
thirty killed, and fifty wounded ; on board the Wasp, five were 
killed, and five slightly wounded. The Wasp and Froliek 
were both captured the same day, by a British seventy-four, the 
Poictiers, Capt. Beresford. 

Section XIX, The above splendid achieve- 
ment of Capt. Jones was followed on the 25th 
of October by another not much less splendid 
and decisive, by Commodore Decatur, of the fri- 
gate United States of forty-four guns, who cap- 
tured the Macedonian off the Western Isles, a 
frigate of the largest class, mounting forty-nine 
guns, and manned with three hundred men. 

In this action, which continued an hour and a half, the Mace- 



328 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

donian lost thirty-six killedj and sixty-eight wounded : on boarrf 
the United States, seven only were killed, and five wounded. 
The British frigate lost her main-mast, main-top-mast, and 
main-yard, and was injured in her hull. The United States 
suffered so little, that a return to port was unnecessary. 

An act of generosity and benevolence on the part of our 
brave tars, of this victorious frigate, deserves to be honourably 
recorded. The carpenter, who was unfortunately killed in the 
conflict with the Macedonian, had left three small children to 
the care of a worthless mother. When the circumstance be- 
c^ime known to the brave seamen, they instantly made a contri- 
bution amongst themselves, to the amount of eight hundred dol- 
lars, and placed it in safe hands, to be appropriated to the edu- 
cation and maintenance of the unhappy orphans. 

Section XX. December 29th a second naval 
victory v^as achieved by the Constitution, then 
commanded by Com. Bainbridge, over the 
Java, a British frigate of thirty-eight guns, but 
carrying forty-nine, w^ith four hundred men, 
commanded by Capt. Lambert, who v^as mor- 
tally wounded. 

This action was fought off St. Salvador, and continued nearly 
two hours, when the Java struck, having lost sixty killed and 
one hundred and twenty wounded. The Constitution had nine 
men killed, and twenty-five wounded. On the 1st of January, 
the commander, finding his prize incapable of being brought in, 
was obliged to burn her. 

Section l^^L Thus ended the year 1812. 
With the exception of the naval victories alrea- 
dy mentioned, and some others of the same 
kind, equally honourable to America, nothing 
important was achieved. Neither of the armies 
destined for the invasion of Canada had obtain- 
ed any decisive advantage, or were in posses- 
sion of any post in that territory. Further pre- 
parations, however, were making for its con- 
quest. Naval armaments were collecting on the 
lakes; and the soldiers, in their winter quar- 
ters, were looking forward to " battles fought 
and victories wo "' 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 329 

Section XX.ll, 1813. January 22d, a bloody 
action was foaght at the river Raisin, between a 
detachment from the north-western army, ex- 
ceeding seven hundred and fifty men, under 
Gen. Winchester, and a combined force of Bri- 
tish and Indians, amounting to one thousand 
five hundred men, under Gen. Proctor. Many 
of the Americans were killed and wounded. 
Among the former was Gen. Winchester. The 
remainder, on surrendering themselves prison- 
ers of war, were nearly all inhumanly massa- 
cred by the Indians, contrary to the express sti- 
pulations of Gen. Proctor. 

The station of Gerreral Harrison, the commander of the north- 
western army, was at this time at Franklinton. General Win- 
chester was stationed at Fort Defiance, half way between Fort 
Wayne, on the Miami, and Lake Erie, with eight hundred 
troops, chiefly young men, of the first respectability, from Ken- 
tucky. Learning that a body of British and Indians was about 
to concentrate at Frenchtown, on the river Raisin, he sent a de- 
tachment 10 protect that place. Before the arrival of the de- 
tachment, Frenchtown was occupied by a party of the enemy, 
but they were dislodged after a severe engagement, in which the 
Americans had twelve killed, and fifty-five wounded. 

On the 20th, General Winchester joined the detachment at 
Frenchtown, with the remainder of his troops, and, on the 22d, 
the battle of Raisin was fought. After a desperate conflict, in 
v,diich many on both sides were killed, the Americans surren- 
dered, with the express stipulation of being protected from the 
Indians. 

Contrary, however, to these stipulations, the savages were 
permitted to indulge their full thirst for blood. The tomahawk 
was mercilessly buried in many a bosom, and the scalping knife 
wantonly tore the crown from many a head. 

Even the last sad rites of sepulture were forbidden, by their 
murderers, and the remains of these brave youth of Kentucky 
lay on the ground, beat by the storms of Heaven, and exposed 
to the beasts of the forest, until the ensuing autumn, when theii 
friends and relations ventured to gather up their bleaching bones, 
and consigned them to tlie tomb. 

Section XX HI. During the winter, an en- 
gagement took place between the Hornet, Cap- 



330 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

tain James Lawrence, and the British sloop of 
war Peacock, Captain William Peake, off South 
America. This action lasted but fifteen minutes, 
when the Peacock struck. 

On her surrendering, a signal of distress was discovered, on 
board the Peacock. She had been so much damaged, that, al- 
ready, she had six feet of water in her hold, and was sinking fast. 
Boats were immediately despatched for the wounded, and every 
measure taken, which was practicable, to keep her afloat until 
the crew could be removed. Her guns were thrown overboard, 
the shot holes were plugged, and a part of the Hornet's crew, 
at the imminent hazard of their lives, laboured incessantly to 
rescue the vanquished. The utmost efforts of these generous 
men were, however, vain ; the conquered vessel sunk in the 
midst of them, carrying down nine of her own crew and three 
of the Americans. With a generosity becoming them, the crew 
of the Hornet divided tlieir clothing with the prisoners, who were 
left destitute by the sinking ship. In the action the Hornet re- 
ceived but a slight injury. - The killed and wounded, on board 
the Peacock, were supposed to exc-e(»d fifty. 

Section XXIV. On the 4th of March, 1813, 
Mr. Madison entered upon his second term of 
office, as president of the United States; having 
been re-elected by a considerable majority, 
though De Witt Clinton, of New-York, was sup- 
ported by the federal electors. George Clinton 
was elected vice president : he died, however, 
soon after, and Elbridge Gerry succeeded him. 

Section XXV. It having been communicated 
to the American government^ that the emperour 
of Russia was desirous of seeing an end put to 
the hostilities between Great Britain and Ame- 
rica, and had offered to mediote between the 
two countries, Messrs. Albert Gallatin, James 
A. Bayard, and John Quincy Adams, were, 
early in the spring, 1813, appointed commis- 
sioners to Russia, to meet such commissioners 
as should be sent by the British court, and were 
empowered to negotiate a treaty of peace and 
commerce with Great Britain 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 33 1 

Section XXVI. During the winter, which had 
now passed, Great Britain sent a number of 
troops to Halifax, and made considerable pre- 
parations for the defence of Canada. Similar 
preparations had been urged by the American 
government, with the hope of completing the 
conquest of that territory, before the close of 
another campaign. 

About the middle of April, the commander in 
chief, Gen. Dearborn, determined to attack 
York, the capital of Upper Canada, the great 
depository of British military stores, whence the 
western ports were supplied. Accordingly, on 
the 27th, a successful attack was made, and 
York fell into the hands of the Americans, with 
all its stores. 

The command of the troops, one thousand seven hundred, de- 
tached for this purpose, was given to Gen. Pike. On the 25th, 
the fleet under Conmiodore Chauncey, moved down the lake, 
with the troops from Sackeit's Harbour, and, on the 27th, arriv- 
ed at the place of debarkation, about two miles westward from 
V^ork, and one and a half from the enemies' works. The Bri- 
tish consisting of about seven hundred and fifty regulars, and 
five hundred Indians, under Gen. Sheaffe, attempted to oppose 
the landing, but were thrown into disorder, and fled to their gar- 
rison. 

Gen. Pike, having formed his men, proceeded towards the 
enemies' fortifications. On their near approach to the barracks, 
about sixty rods from tlie garrison, an explosion of a magazine 
took place, previously prepared for the purpose, which killed 
about one hundred of the Americans, among whom was the gal- 
lant Pike. 

Pike lived to direct his troops, for a moment thrown into dis- 
order, " to move on." This they now did under Col. Pearce ; 
and, proceeding towards the town, took possession of the barracks. 
On approaching it, they were met by the officers of the Canada 
militia, with offers of capitulation. At four o'clock the troops 
entered the town. 

The loss of the British in killed, wounded, and prisoners, 
amounted to seven hundred and fifty — the Americans lost, in 
killed and wounded, about three hundred. 



332 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

Section XXVII. During the remainder of the 
spring, the war continued along the Canada 
line, and on some parts of the sea board ; but 
nothing important was achieved by either power. 
The Chesapeake Bay was blockaded by the 
British, and predatory excursions, by. their 
troops, were made at Havre De Grace, George- 
town, &c. Several villages were burnt, and 
much property plundered and destroyed. To 
the north of the Chesapeake, the coast was not 
exempt from the effects of the war. A strict 
blockade was kept up at New-York. The 
American frigates United States and Macedo- 
nian, and the sloop Hornet, attempted to sail on 
a cruise from that port, about the beginning of 
May, but were prevented. In another attempt, 
they were chased into New-London harbour, 
where they were blockaded by a fleet under 
Commodore Hardy, for many months. Fort 
George, in Canada, was taken by the Americans. 
Sackett's Harbour was attacked by one thou- 
sand British, who were repelled with considera- 
ble loss. 

Section XXVIII. On the first of June, the 
American navy experienced no inconsiderable 
loss, in the capture of the Chesapeake, by the 
British frigate Shannon, off Boston harbour — a 
loss the more severely felt, as on board of her 
fell several brave officers, among whom was her 
commander, the distinguished and lamented 
Capt. Lawrence. 

Capt. Lawrence had been bat recently promoted to the com- 
mand of the Chesapeake. On his arrival at Boston, to take 
charge of her, he was informed that a British frigate was lying 
off the harbour, apparently inviting an attack. — Prompted by 
the ardour which pervaded the service, he resolved to meet the 
enemy, without svifficiently examining his strength. With a 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 333 

crew, chiefly enlisted for the occasion, as that of the Chesapeake 
had mostly been discharged, on the 1st of June, he sailed out of 
the harbour. 

The Shannon, observing the Chesapeake put to sea, imme- 
diately followed. At half past five, the two ships engaged. By 
the first broadside, the sailing master of the Chesapeake was 
killed, and Lieut. Ballard mortally wounded: Lieut. Brown 
and Capt. Lawrence were severely wounded, at the same time. 
A second, and third broadside, besides adding to the destruction 
of her officers, so disabled the Chesapeake in her rigging, that 
her quarter fell on the Shannon's anchor. This accident may 
be considered as deciding the contest ; an opportunity was 
given the enemy to rake the Chesapeake, and, toward the close 
of the action, to board her. Capt. Lawrence, though severely 
wounded, still kept the deck. In the act of summoning the 
boarders, a musket ball entered his body, and brought him 
down. As he was carried below, he issued a last heroick order, 
" DonH give up the ship ;" but it was too late to retrieve what 
was lost ; the British boarders leaped into the vessel, and after 
a short, but bloody struggle, hoisted the British flag. 

In this sanguinary conflict, twenty-three of the enemy were 
killed, and fifty wounded ; on board the Chesapeake about 
seventy were killed, and eighty-three wounded. 

Section \K1X, The tide of fortune seemed 
now, for a short time, to tm'n in favour of Great 
Britain. On the 14th of August, the Argus, of 
eighteen guns, another of our national vessels, 
w^as captured by the Pelican of twenty guns. 

The Argus had been employed to carry out Mr. Crawford, as 
minister, to France. After landing him, she proceeded to cruise 
in the British channel, and, for two months, greatly annoyed the 
British shipping. At length that government was induced to 
send several vessels in pursuit of her. On the 14th of August, 
the Pelican, a sloop of war, of superior force, discovered her, 
and bore down to action. At the first broadside Capt. Allen 
fell severely wounded, but remained on deck for some time, 
when it was necessary to carry him below. After a hard fought 
action, the Argus was obliged to surrender, with a loss of six 
killed and seventeen wounded. On board the Pelican there 
were but three killed and five wounded. Captain Allen died 
soon after, in England, and was interred with the honours of 
war. 

Section XXX. After the loss of the Chesa- 
peake and Argus J victory again returned to the 



334 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

side of America. On the 5th of September fol- 
lowing, the British brig Boxer surrendered to 
the Enterprize, after an engagement of little 
more than half an horn*. 

The Enterprize sailed from Portsmouth on the 1st, and was 
on the fifth descried by the Boxer, which immediately gave 
chase. After the action had continued for fifteen minutes, the 
Enterprize ranged ahead, and raked her enemy so powerfully, 
that in twenty minutes the firing ceased, and the cry of quarter 
was heard. The Enterprize had one killed and thirteen 
wounded ; but that one was her lamented commander, Lieu- 
tenant Burrows. He fell at the commencement of the action, 
but continued to cheer his crew, averring that the flag should 
never be struck. When the sword of the enemy was presented 
to him, he exclaimed " I die contented." The British loss was 
more considerable. Among their killed was Captain Blythe. 
These two commanders, both in the morning of life, were inter- 
«ed beside each other, at Portland, with military honours. 

Section XXXl. During these occurrences on 
.he sea board, important preparations had been 
made for decisive measures to the westward, 
and the general attention was now turned, with 
great anxiety, towards the movements of the 
northwestern army, and the fleet under com- 
mand of Commodore Perry, on Lake Erie. 

This anxiety, not long after, was, in a mea- 
sure, dispelled by a decisive victory of the Ame- 
rican fleet, over that of the British, on Lake 
Erie, achieved, after a long and desperate con- 
flict, on the 10th of September. 

The American squadron consisted of nine vessels, carrying 
fifty-four guns, that of the British, of six vessels and sixty-three 
guns. The line of battle was formed at eleven, and at a quarter 
before twelve, the enemy's flag ship, Queen Charlotte, opened 
a tremendous fire upon the Lawrence, the flag ship of Commo- 
dore Perry, which was sustained by the latter, ten minutes be- 
fore she could bring her carronades to bear. At length, she bore 
up and engaged the enemy, making signals to the remainder of 
the squadron to hasten to her support. Unfortunately, the wind 
was too light to admit of a compliance with the order, and she 
was compelled to contend, for two hours, with two ships of 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 335 

equal force. By this time, tlie brig had become unmanageable, 
and her crew, excepting four or live, were either killed or wound- 
ed. 

While thus surrounded with death, — and destruction still 
pouring in upon him, Perry left the brig, now only a wreck, in 
an open boat, and heroically waving his sword, passed unhurt 
to the Niagara of twenty guns. The wind now rose. Order- 
ing every canvass to be spread, he bore down upon the enemy: 
• — passing the enemy's vessels, Detroit, Queen Charlotte, and 
Lady Prevost, on the one side, and the Chippewa, and Little 
Belt, on the other, into each of which, he poured a broadside — 
he at length engaged the Lady Provbst, which received so heavy 
a fire as to compel her men to retire below. 

The remainder of the American squadron, now, one after ano- 
ther, arrived, and following the example of their intrepid leader, 
closed in with the enemy, and the battle became general. 

Three hours finished the contest, and enabled Perry to an- 
nounce to Gen. Harrison the capture of the whole squadron, 
which he did, in this modest, laconick, and emphatick style : 
" We have met the enemy, and they are ours." 

The loss in the contest was great i% proportion to the numbers 
engaged. The Americans had twenty-seven killed and ninety- 
six wounded. But the British loss was still greater, being about 
two hundred in killed and wounded. The prisoners amounted 
to six hundred, exceeding the whole number of Americans en- 
gaged in the action. 

Section XXXI I. The Americans were now 
masters of Lake Erie, but Detroit and Maiden 
were in possession of the British General Proc- 
tor. Against these, Gen. Harrison, commander 
of the north-western army, now resolved to di- 
rect his forces. 

Col. Johnson, with a body of KentucKians, 
was despatched against Detroit. Gen. Harri- 
son with his troops repaired on boaid the fleet, 
and the same day reached Maiden. The Bri- 
tish general, however, destroyed Maiden, and 
retired with his forces. 

Finding Maiden destroyed, Harrison next de- 
termined to proceed in pursuit of Proctor. On 
the 2d of October, with about two thousand five 
hundred men, selected for the purpose, he com- 



336 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

menced a rapid march, and, on the 5th, readied 
the place where the enemy had encamped the 
night before. Col. Johnson, who had joined 
Gen. Harrison, was sent forward to reconnoitre 
the enemy, and soon returned with the informa- 
tion that they had made a stand a few miles 
distant, and wer^ ready for action. 

The American troops were now formed in or- 
der of battle. The armies engaged, and, for a 
time, the strife raged with fury. Providence, 
however, gave to the Americans a decisive vic- 
tory, and Detroit fell into their hands. 

In this engafremeiit, the loss of the British was nineteen regu- 
lars killed, fifty wounded, and about six hundred prisoners. 
The Indians left one hundred and twenty on the field. The 
loss of the Americans did not exceed fifty. 

In this battle were entra^-ed one thousand two hundred or one 
thousand five hundred Intfians, led on by Tecumseh, a savage 
warriour, than whom the annals of history can scarcely boa^t a 
greater. Since the defeat of Harmer he had been in almost eve- 
ry engagement with the whites. On the opening of the late 
war, he visited various tribes, and, by his eloquence and influ- 
ence, roused his countrymen to arms against the United States. 

Section XXXni. The fail of Detroit put an 
end to the Indian war in that quarter, and gave 
security to the frontiers. Gen. Harrison now 
dismissed a greater part of his volunteers, and 
having stationed Gen, Cass at Detroit, with 
about one thousand men, proceeded, according 
to his instructions, with the remainder of his 
forces, to Buffalo, to join the army of the centre. 

Section XXXIV. The result of the opera- 
tions of the north-west, and the victory on Lake 
Erie, prepared the way to attempt a more effec- 
tual invasion of Canada. 

Gen. Wilkinson was now commanding the 
American forces in the north. Gen. Dearborn 
having some time before retired on account of 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 337 

indisposition. The force destined for the con- 
templated invasion of Canada, amounted to 
twelve thousand men, — eight thousand of whom 
were stationed at Niagara, and four thousand at 
Plattsburg, under the command of Gen. Hamp- 
ton. — In addition to these forces, those under 
Gen. Harrison were expected to arrive in sea- 
son to furnish important assistance. 

The outline of the plan which had been 
adopted, was to descend the St. Lawrence, 
passing the British forts above, and, after a 
junction with Gen. Hampton, at some designat- 
ed point on the river, to proceed to the Island 
of Montreal. Unexpected difficulties, however, 
occurred, which prevented the execution of this 
plan, and the American forces retired into win- 
ter quarters at St. Regis. 

Gen. Wilkinson concentrated his forces at Grenadiers' Island, 
oetvveen Sackett's Harbour and Kingston, one hundred and 
eigfity miles from Montreal, by the way of the river. This place 
the army left, on the 25th of October, on board the fleet, and 
descended the St. Lawrence, sanguine in the expectation of sub- 
duing Montreal. 

On the arrival of the flotilla at Williamsburg, November 9th, 
one thousand five hundred men, of Gen Boyd's brigade, were 
landed with a view to cover the boats in their passage through 
the rapids. On the 11th an engagement took place, which con- 
tinued two hours, between this detachment of the American 
army, and a detachment of the British under Lieut. Col Mor- 
rison. — Both parties claimed the victory, but it was, properly, a 
drawn battle, the British retiring to their encampments, and the 
Americans to their boats. The loss of the British is not ascer- 
tained ; that of the Americans, in killed wounded, was three 
hundred and thirty-nine. Among the latter was Gen. Carring- 
ton, who died of his wounds. 

A tew days previous to this battle, as Gen. Harrison had not 
arrived. Gen. Wilkinson despatched orders to Gen. Hampton 
to meet him at St. Regis. To these orders. Gen. Hampton re- 
plied, that it was impracticable to comply with them. On the 
receipt of this communication, a council of officers was called, 
which advised to abandon the project ar.d to retire. Accord^- 

29 



338 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

ingly, Gen. Wilkinson ordered a retreat, and selected French 
Mills, as the winter quarters of his army. The troops of Gen. 
Hampton soon followed this example. 

Thus ended a campaign which gave rise to 
dissatisfaction, proportioned to the high expec- 
tations that had been indulged of its success. 
Publick opinion was much divided as to the 
causes of its failure, and as to the parties to 
whom the blame was properly to be attached. 

Section XXXV. The proposal of the empe- 
rour of Russia to mediate between the United 
States and Great Britain, with reference to an 
amicable adjustment of their differences, and 
the appointment of Messrs. Gallatin, Adams, 
and Bayard, as commissioners under that pro- 
posal, have been mentioned. This proposal, 
however. Great Britain thought expedient to de- 
cline; but the prince regent offered a direct 
negotiation, either at London or Gottenburg. 
The offer was no sooner communicated to our 
gr vernment, than accepted, and Messrs. Henry 
Clay, Jonathan Russel, and Albert Gallatin, 
were appointed in addition to the commission- 
ers already in Europe, and soon after sailed for 
Gottenburg. Lord Gambier, Henry Goulbourn, 
and William Adams, were appointed on the part 
of the court of St. James, to meet them. The 
place of their meeting was first fixed at Gotten- 
burg, but subsequently was changed to Ghent, 
in Flanders, where the commissioners assem- 
bled in August. 

Section XXXVI. The spring of 1814 was 
distinguished for the loss of the American fri- 
gate Essex, Commodore David Porter, which 
was captured on the 28th of March, in the bay 
of Valparaiso, South America, by a superiour 
British force. 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION 339 

Commodore Porter had been cruising in the Pacifick for near- 
ly a year, in the course of which he had captured several Brir 
tish armed whale ships. Some of these were equipped as Ame- 
rican cruisers and store ships ; and the Atlantick, now called 
the Essex Junior, of twenty guns and sixty men, was assigned 
to Lieut. Downes. The prizes which were to be laid up, 
were convoyed by this officer to Valparaiso. On his return, he 
brought intelligence to Commodore Porter that a British squad- 
ron, consisting of one frigate, and two sloops of n^ar, and a 
store ship of twenty guns, had sailed in quest of the Essex. The 
commodore took measures, immediately, to repair his vessel, 
which, having accomplished, on the 12th of December, 1813, 
he sailed for Valparaiso, in company with the Essex Junior. 

" It was not long after the arrival of Commodore Porter at 
Valparaiso, when Commodore Hillyar appeared there in the 
Phoebe frigate, accompanied by the Cherub sloop of war. — 
These vessels had been equipped for the purpose of meeting the 
Essex, with picked crews, in prime order, and hoisted flags 
bearing the motto, " God and our country, British sailors' best 
rights ; traitors offend tJiem.^^ This was in allusion to Porter's 
celebrated motto, " Free trade and sailors' rights ;" he now 
hoisted at his mizzen, " God, our country, and liberty : tyrants 
offend them." On entering the harbour, the British commodore 
fell foul of the Essex, in such a situation as to be placed com- 
pletely in the power of the latter ; the forbearance of Commo* 
dore Porter was acknowledged by the English commander, and 
he passed his word and honour to observe the same regard to 
the neutrality of the port. 

" The Britis4i vessels soon after stood out, and cruised off the 
port about six weeks, rigorously blockading the Essex. Their 
united force amounted to eighty-one guns and about five hun- 
dred men, about double that of the Essex ; but the circumstance 
of this force being divided in two ships, rendered the disparity 
still greater ; and was by no means counterbalanced by the Es- 
sex Junior. Commodore Porter being prevented by this great 
disparity of force, from engaging, made repeated attempts to 
draw the Phoebe into action singly, either by manoeuvring or 
sending formal challenges ; but Commodore Hillyar carefully 
avoided the coming to action alone. The American command- 
er, hearing that an additional British force was on its way, and 
having discovered that his vessel could outsail those of the Bri- 
tish, determined to sail out, and, while the enemy was in chase, 
enable the Essex Junior to escape to a place of rendezvous pre- 
viously appointed. 

" On the twenty-eighth of March, the wind coming on to 
blow fresh from the southward ; the Essex parted her starboard 



340 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

cable, and dragged her larboard anchor to sea. Not a moment 
was lost in getting sail on the ship, as it was determined to 
seize this moment to escape. In endeavouring to pass to the 
windward of the enemy, a squall struck the American vessel, 
just as she was doubling the point, which carried away her 
main-top-mast ; both ships immediately gave chase, and being 
unable to escape in his crippled state, the commodore endea- 
voured to put back into the harbour ; but finding this impractica- 
ble, he ran into a small bay, and anchored within pistol shot of 
the shore : where, from a supposition that the enemy would 
continue to respect the neutrality of the port, he thought himself 
secure. He soon found, however, by the manner in which they 
approached, that he was mistaken. With all possible despatch, 
therefore, he prepared his ship for action, and endeavoured to 
get a spring on his cable, which he could not accomplish before 
the enemy commenced the attack, at fifty-four minutes past 
three. 

At first tha Phonbe placed herself on his stern, and the Che- 
rub on his larboard bow ; but the latter soon finding herself ex- 
posed to a hot fire, changed her position, and with her consort, 
kept up a raking fire under his stern. The American, being 
unable to bring his broadside to bear on the enemy, his spring 
cables having been three times shot away, was obliged, there- 
fore, to rely for defence against this tremendous attack, on three 
long twelve pounders, which he ran out of the stern ports ; 
which were worked with such bravery and skill, as in half an 
hour to do so much injury to the enemy, as to compel them to 
haul off and repair. 

It was evident that Commodore Hillyar meant to risk nothing 
from the daring courage of the iVmericans^ all liis manoeuvres 
were deliberate and wary ; his antagonist was in his power, and 
his only concern was to succeed with as httle loss to himself as 
possible. The situation of the Essex was most vexatious to our 
brave countrymen ; many of them were aheady killed and 
wounded, and from the crippled state of their ship, they were 
unable to bring her guns to bear upon the enemy. — Her gallant 
crew were not disheartened ; aroused to desperation, they ex- 
pressed their defiance to the enemy, and their determination to 
hold out to the last. 

The enemy having repaired, now placed himself, with both 
ships on the starboard quarter of the Essex, where none of her 
guns could be brought to bear ; the commodore saw no hope 
but in getting under way ; the flying-jib was the only sail be 
could set ; this he caused to be hoisted, cut his cable, and ran 
down on both ships, with the intention of laying the Phoebe on 
board. For a short time he was enabled to close with the ene 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 341 

my, and the firing was tremendous ; the decks of the Essex 
were strewed with dead, and her cockpit filled with J>" wound- 
ed ; she had been several times on fire, and was, in fact, a per- 
fect wreck. At this moment, a feeble hope arose, that she might 
still be saved, in consequence of the Cherub being compelled to 
haul ofi" on account of her crippled state ; she, however, kept 
up her fire at a distance, with her long gims. The Essex was 
unable, however, to take advantage of the circumstance, as the 
Fhcebe edged off", and also kept up, at a distance, a destructive 
fire ; the former being totally bereft of her sails, could not bring 
her to close quarters. 

Commodore Porter finding the greater part of his crew dis- 
abled, at last gave up all hope, and attempted to run his vessel 
on shore, the wind at that moment favouring his design ; but it 
suddenly changed, drove her close upon the Phoebe, exposing 
her to a raking fire. The ship was totally unmanageable, but 
as she drifted with her head to the enemy, Commodore Porter 
again seized a faint hope of being able to board. At this mo- 
ment Lieutenant Downes came on board, to receive orders, ex 
pecting that his commander would. soon be a prisoner. His ser- 
vices could be of no avail in tlie present deplorable state of the 
Essex, and finding from the enemy's putting up his helm, that 
the last attempt at boarding would not succeed, Downes was 
directed to repair to his ship, to be prepared for defending and 
destroying her, in case of attack. 

The slaughter on board the Essex now became horrible, the 
enemy continuing to rake her while she was unable to bring a 
single gun to bear. Still her commander refused to yield while 
a ray of hope appeared. Every expedient, that a fertile and 
inventive genius could suggest, was resorted to, in the forlorn 
hope, that he might be able, by some lucky chance, to escape 
from the grasp of the foe. A hawser was bent to the sheet an- 
chor, and the anchor cut from the bows, to bring the ship's head 
around. This succeeded ; the broadside of the Essex was again 
brought to bear ; and as tlie enemy was much crippled, and un- 
able to hold his own, the commodore thought she might drift out 
of gunshot, before he discovered that the Essex had anchored ; 
but alas ! this last expedient failed ; the hawser parted, and with 
it went the last lingering hope of the Essex. 

At this moment her situation was awful beyond description. 
^he was on fire both before and aft, the flames were bursting up 
her hatchway, a quapiity of pov/der exploded below, and word 
was given that the fire was neai- lier magazine. Thus surround- 
by horrours, without any chance of saving his slup, he turned 
his attention to the saving as many of his gallant companions as 
he could : the distance to the shore not exceeding three quarters 

29* 



342 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

of a mile, he hoped that many of them would save themselves 
before the ship blew up. His boats being cut up, they coutd 
only hope to escape by swimming ; by some this was effected, 
but the greater part of his generous crew resolved to stay by the 
ship, and share the fate of their commander. 

They now laboured to extinguish the flames, and succeeded ; 
after this, they again repaired to their gims, but their strength 
liad become so much exhausted, that this effort was in vain. 
Comniodore Porter summoned a consultation of the officers of 
the divisions, when to his astonishment only one acting lieute- 
nant, Stephen Decatur M'^Night, appeared. The accounts from 
every part of the ship were deplorable indeed ; she was in im- 
minent danger of sinking, and so crowded with the wounded, 
that even her birthdeck could hold no more, and several were 
killed under the surgeon's bands. In the mean time the enemy, 
at a secure distance, continued bis fire ; the water having be- 
come smooth, he struck tlie hull of the Essex at every shot. At 
last, despairing of saving his ship, the commodore was compell- 
ed, at twenty minutes past six, to give tlie painful orders to strike 
the colours. The enemy, probably not seeing that this had ta- 
ken place, continued to fire for ten minutes after, and Porter was 
about to give orders that the colours should again be hoisted, 
under a belief that the enem}^ intended to give no quarters, when 
the firing ceased. The loss on board the Essex was fifty-eight 
killed, thirty-nine wounded severely, twenty-seven slightly, and 
thirty one missing. The loss on board the British vessels was 
five killed and ten wounded ; but they were both much cut up 
in their hulls and rigging ; the Phoebe could scarcely be kept 
afloat until she anchored in the port of Valparaiso next morn- 
ing. 

Commodore Porter was paroled, and permitted to return to 
the United States in the Essex Junior, which was converted in- 
to a cartel for the purpose. On arriving off the port of New- 
York, the vessel was detained by the Saturn razee, and to the 
disgrace of the British navy, already dishonoured by the base 
attack upon this gallant officer, he was compelled to give up 
his parole, and declare himself a prisoner of war, and, as such, 
he informed the British officer that he would attempt his escape. 
In consequence of this threat, the Essex Junior was ordered to 
rema'-n under the lee of the Saturn ; but the next morning Com- 
modoi t- Porter put off in bis boat, though thirty miles from shore, 
and notwithstanding the pursuit by those of the Saturn, arriveci 
safely in New-York."* 



* Brackenridge. 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 343 

Sectio7i XXXVII. Towards the close of April, 
after an action of forty-two minutes, the British 
brig Epervier surrendered to the Peacock. Fort 
Erie was taken from the British, early in July, 
and during the same month, sanguinary battles 
were fought at Chippewa and Bridgewater. 

In the battle of Bridgewater, or Niagara, Generals Brown 
and Scott commanded the Americans ; Generals Drummond 
and Riail the British. The battle lasted from four o'clock, P. 
M. till midnight. The British loss was nine hundred in killed, 
wounded, and prisoners ; the loss of the Americans did not ex- 
ceed one hundred. The former were obliged to retire. 

Section XXXVIII. While these events were 
transpiring in the north, the publick attention 
was irresistibly drawn to the movements of the 
enemy on the sea-board. About the middle of 
August, between fifty and sixty sail of the Bri- 
tish arrived in the Chesapeake, with troops des- 
tined for the attack of Washington, the capital 
of the United States. On the 23d of August, 
six thousand British troops, commanded by 
Gen. Ross, forced their way to that place, burnt 
the capitol, president's house, and executive of- 
fices. Having thus accomplished an object 
highly disgraceful to the British arms, and wan- 
tonly burned publick buildings, the ornament 
and pride of the nation, the destruction of which 
could not hasten the termination of the war- 
on the 25th they retired, and, by rapid marches, 
regained their shipping, having lost, during the 
expedition, nearly one thousand men. 

The troops, under Gen. Ross, were landed at Benedict, on 
the Pawtuxet, forty-seven miles from Washington. On the 
21st, they moved toward Nottingham, and, the following day, 
reached Marlborough. A British flotilla, commanded by Cock- 
burn, consisting of launches and barges, ascended the river at 
the same time, keeping on the right flank of the army. The 
day following, on approaching the American flotilla of Com. 
Barney, which had taken refuge high up the river, twelve miles 



344 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

from Washington, some sailors left on board the flotilla for the 
purpose, should it be necessarj^, set fire to it, and fled. 

On the arrival of the British army at Bladensburg, six miles 
from Washington, Gen. Winder, commander of the American 
forces, chiefly militia collected for the occasion, ordered them to 
engage the enemy. The principal part of the militia, however, 
fled, at the opening of the contest. Commodore Barney, with 
a few eighteen pounders, and about four hundred men, made a 
gallant resistance; but being overpowered by numbers, and 
himself wounded, he and a part of his brave band were compell- 
ed to surrender themselves prisoners of war. 

From BladCiisburg, Gen. Ross urged his march to Washing- 
ton, where he arriv^^d at about 8 o'clock in the evening. Having 
stationed his main body at the distance of a mile and a half 
from the capitol, he entered the city, at the liead of about seven 
hundred men, soon after which, he issued his orders for the con- 
flagration of the publick buildings. With the capitol were con- 
sumed its valuable libraries, and all the furniture, and articles of 
taste and value in that and in the other buildings. The great 
bridge acro'ss the Potomack was burnt, together with an elegant 
hotel, and other private buildings. 

Section XXXIX. The capture of Washing- 
ton was followed, September 12th, by an attack 
on Baltimore, in which the American forces, 
militia, and inhabitants of Baltimore, made a 
gallant defence. Being, however, overpowered 
by a snperiour force, they were compelled to 
retreat; but they fought so valiantly, that the 
attempt to gain possession of the city was aban- 
doned by the enemy, w^ho, during the night of 
Tuesday, 13th, retired to their shipping, having 
lost among their killed, Gen. Ross, the comman- 
der in chief of the British troops. 

The British army, after the capture of Washington, having 
re-embarked on board the fleet in the Pawtuxent, Admiral Coch- 
rane moved down that river, and proceeded up lae Chesapeake. 
On the morning of the 1 1th of September, he appeared at the 
mouth of the Pata})SCo, fourteen miles from Baltimore, with a 
fleet of ships of war and transports, amounting to fifty sail. 

On the next day, 12tli, land forces, to the number of six thou- 
sand, were landed at North Point, and, under the connnand ot 
Gen. Ross, commenced their march towards the city. In anti- 
cipation of thfi landing of the <»''>oijs, Gen. Strieker v/as despatch 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 345 

ed with three thousand two hundred men from Baltimore, to 
keep the enemy in check. 

On the 12th, a battle was fought by the two armies. Early 
in the engagement, a considerable part of Gen. Strieker's troops 
retreated in confusion, leaving him scarcely one thousand four 
hundred men, to whom was opposed the whole body of the 
enemy. An incessant fire was continued from half past two 
o'clock, till a little before four, when Gen. Strieker, finding the 
contest unequal, and that the enemy outflanked him, retreated 
ipon his reserve, which was effected in good order. 

The loss of the Americans, in killed and wounded, amounted 
io one hundred and sixty three, among whom were some of the 
most respectable citizens of Baltimore. 

The enemy made his appearance, the next morning, in front 
01 the American entrenchments, at a distance of two miles from 
the city, showing an intention of renewing the attack. 

In the meantime, an attack was made on fort M^Henry, from 
frigates, bombs, and rocket vessels, which continued through 
the day, and the greater part of the night, doing, however, but 
little damage. 

In the course of the night of Tuesday, Admiral Cochrane 
hela a communication with the commander of the land forces, 
and ihe enterprise of taking the city being deemed impractica- 
ble, ihe troops were re-embarked, and the next day, the fleet 
descended the bay, to the great joy of the released inhabitants. 

Section XL. During these troubles in the 
south, the enemy were far from being inactive in 
other parts of the United States. August 14th. 
Fort Erie was attacked by the British, com- 
manded by Lieut. Gen. Drummond ; but, after 
a severe engagement, they were repulsed, with 
a loss of six hundred, in killed, and wounded, 
and prisoners. The American loss was two 
hundred and forty -five. 

September 1st. The British took possession 
of Castine, in Maine, as sometime before they 
had taken Eastport, a town situated on one of 
the islands of the bay of Passammaquoddy. 
About this time, also, the seaports along the 
shores of New England being seriously threat- 
ened, the militia were called out, by the autho- 



346 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

rities of the States bordering on the sound, to 
repel the expected foe. 

Section XLI. The joy experienced in all 
parts of the United States, on account of the 
brave defence of Baltimore, had scarcely sub- 
sided, when intelligence was received of the 
signal success of the Americans at Plattsburg, 
and on Lake Champlain. The army of Sir 
George Prevost, amounting to fourteen thou- 
sand men, was compelled by Gen. Macomb to 
retire from the former, and the enemy's squa- 
dron, commanded by Commodore Downie, was 
captured by Commodore Macdonough on the 
latter. 

Towards the close of the winter of 1814, General Wilkinson, 
with his army, removed from their winter-quarters at St. Regis, 
and took station at Plattsburg. Gen. Wilkinson leaving the 
command of the army. Gen. Macomb succeeded him at this 
place. By September, the troops at Plattsburg were diminish- 
ed by detachments, withdrawn to other stations, to one thousand 
five hundred men. 

In this state of the forces, it was announced that Sir George 
Prevost, governour-general of Canada, with an army of four- 
teen thousand men, completely equipped, and accompanied by 
a numerous train of artillery, was about making a descent on 
Plattsburg. 

At this time, both the Americans and British had a respecta- 
ble naval force on lake Champlain ; but that of the latter was 
considerably the superiour, amounting to ninety-five guns, and 
one thousand and fifty men, while the American squadron car- 
ried but eighty-six guns, and eight hundred and twenty-six men. 

On the 1 1th of September, while the American fleet was lying 
o^ Plattsburg, the British squadron was observed bearing down 
upon it in order of battle. 

Com. Macdonough, ordering his vessels cleared for action, 
gallantly received the enemy. An engagement ensued, which 
lasted two hours and twenty minutes. By this time, the enemy 
was silenced, and one frigate, one brig, and two sloops of war 
fell into the hands of the Americans. Several British galleys 
were sunk and a few others escaped. The loss of the Ameri- 
cans was fifty-two killed, and fifty-eight wounded ; of the Bri- 
tish, eighty-four killed, and one hundred and ten wounded. 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 347 

Previously to this eventful day, Sir George Prevost, with his 
army, arrived in the vicinity of Plattsburg. In anticipation of 
this event, Gen. Macomb made every preparation which time 
and means allowed, and called in to his assistance consider ablB 
numbers of the militia. 

In the sight of these two armies, the rival squadrons commenc- 
ed their contest. And, as if their engagement had been a pre- 
concerted signal ; and as if to raise still higher the solemn gran- 
deur of the scene ; Sir George Prevost now led up his forces 
against the American works, and began throwing upon them, 
shells, balls, aiid rockets. 

At the same time, the Americans opened a severe and de- 
structive fire from their forts. Before sunset, the temporary bat- 
teries of Sir George Prevost were all silenced, and every attempt 
of the enemy to cross from Plattsburg to the American works* 
was repelled. At nine o'clock, perceiving the attainment of his 
object impracticable, the British general hastily drew oft' his for- 
ces, diminished by killed, wounded, and deserted, two thousand 
five hundred. At the same time he abandoned vast quantities 
of military stores, and left the inhabitants of Plattsburg to take 
care of the sick and wounded of his army, and the " star-span- 
gled banner" to wave in triumph, over the waters of Cham- 
plain. 

Section XLTI. It has been already noticed, 
that the New England representatives in con- 
gress, as well as a great portion of the people in 
that section of the country, were early and 
strongly opposed to the war with Great Britain. 
During the progress of the war, this opposition 
continued, and became confirmed. Enlistments 
of troops into the army from this quarter were, 
therefore, fewer than under other circumstances 
might have been expected. Dissentions also 
arose between the general and state govern- 
ments respecting the command of the militia, 
called out by order of the former, to defend the 
sea-board. Great dissatisfaction prevailed from 



* The village of Plattsburg is situated oh the northeast side of the small 
river Saranac, near its entrance into the lake, and the American works are 
directly opposite. 



348 PERIOD X....1809....1817 

an apprehension that the affairs of the general 
government were mis-managed, and, to many, 
it appeared that a crisis was forming, which, 
unless seasonably provided against, might in- 
volve the country in ruin. 

Such apprehensions for the political safety 
extensively prevailing throughout New Eng- 
land, it was deemed important, by those who 
felt for them, to take measures to remove pub- 
lick grievances, and to provide against antici- 
pated evils. 

Accordingly, on the 8th of October, 1814, at 
an extra session of the Massachusetts Legisla- 
ture, a committee, to whom was referred the 
speech of the governour, (Strong,) in the con- 
clusion of their report, recommend the appoint- 
ment of *' delegates to meet and confer with 
delegates from the States of 'New England, or 
any of them, upon the subjects of their publick 
grievances and concerns" — " and also to take 
measures, if they shall think proper, for procur- 
ing a convention of delegates from all the Uni- 
ted States, in order to revise the constitution 
thereof, and more effectually to secure the sup- 
port and attachment of all the people, by plac- 
ing all upon the basis of fair representation." 

This resolution met with a spirited opposition 
from a respectable minority, both in the senate 
and house of representatives — but finally pass- 
ed. Delegates were accordingly chosen. This 
example was followed by Rhode-Island and 
Connecticut. Vermont refused, and New-Hamp 
shire neglected to send. 

On the 15th of December, these delegates, 
together with two elected by counties in New- 
Hampshire, and one similarly elected in Ver- 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 349 

mont, met at Hartford. After a session of near 
three weeks, they published a report, in which, 
after dwelling upon the publick grievances felt 
by the New England States particularly, and by 
the country at large, in no small degree, they 
proceeded to suggest several alterations of the 
federal constitution, with a view to their adop- 
tion by the respective states of the Union. 

These alterations consisted of seven articles — -firsty that re- 
presentatives and direct taxes shall be apportioned to the num- 
ber of free persons ; — secondly, that no new State shall be ad- 
mitted into the union without the concurrence of two thirds of 
both houses ; — thirdly, that congress shall not have power to 
lay an embargo for more than sixty days \— fourthly, that con- 
gress shall not interdict commercial intercourse, without the con- 
currence of two thirds of both houses ',— fifthly, that war shall 
not be declared without the concurrence of a similar majority ;— 
sixthly, that no person who shall be hereafter naturalized, shall be 
eligible as a member of the senate or house of representatives, or 
hold any civil office under the authority of the United States ; 
and seventhly, that no person shall be elected twice to the pre- 
sidency, nor the president be elected from the ?ame State two 
terms in succession. 

The report of the convention concluded with 
a resolution, providing for the calling of another 
convention, should the United States ** refuse 
their consent to some arrangement whereby the 
New England States, separately, or in concert, 
might be empowered to assume upon them- 
selves the defence of their territory against the 
enemy," appropriating a reasonable proportion 
of the publick taxes for this purpose; or, 
" should peace not be concluded, and the de- 
fence of the New-England States be neglected 
as it has been since the commencement of the 
war." 

The conclusion of a treaty of peace with Great Britain, not 
long after being announced, another convention Vfins. not called ; 
jmd on the submission of the above amendments of the constitu- 
tion to the several states, they were rejected. 

30 



350 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

No act of the federal party has been so bitterly repr ehended 
by their opponents, as the formation of the Hartford Convention. 
It is represented by them, as a treasonable combination of am- 
bitious individuals, who, taking advantage of the embarrassments 
of the national administration, arising out of the war, sought to 
sever the union ; and were only deterred from an open attempt 
to accomplish their purpose by the unexpected conclusion of a 
treaty of peace with Great Britain — which disembarrassed the 
administration — and swept away all grounds upon which to pro- 
secute their designs. 

In defence of the convention, it is urged, that the individuals 
who composed it, assembled in obedience to legislative appoint- 
ment ; and be the formation of a convention right or wrong, 
they, as individuals, were not responsible for it. That the call- 
ing of the convention was right, is urged on the following 
grounds : at the period of its formation, the situation of the coun- 
try was such as gave serious grounds of alarm to reflecting men ; 
— the war operations had been singularly disastrous ; the recruit- 
ing service languished ; the national treasury was almost pen- 
niless ; the national credit was shaken, and loans were effected 
at a ruinous discount ; the New-England seaboard was left ex- 
posed to the enemy — and instead of securing the confidence of 
the people of the eastern states, by tilling the military and civil 
otfices under the general government, with men of known ta- 
lents and character, the administration committed the interests 
of the nation at a critical period to men contemned by a vast 
majority of the people in those states. 

The publick mitnd in view of this state of things, was excit- 
ed to a pitch bordering on insurrection ; and as their representa- 
tion in congress was unhear d, they looked with earnest impor- 
tunity to their state legislatures. What could be done ? From 
the earliest dates of its history, the legislatures of New-England 
had been accustomed to call conventions, at periods of common 
danger, to confer upon the publick welfare. It was natural at 
this moment to resort to the same course ; and instead of favour- 
ing the suspicion of treasonable intentions by the character of 
the men selected to form this convention ; the age, gravity, and 
established reputation of the greater part of the members of it are 
a fair refutation of such suspicions. There are no clear proofs 
to support the charge of treasonable designs on the part of the 
convention ; on the contrary their doings, which are the only 
fair test of their motives, and the only just grounds upon which 
to form its character, and which are before the world in their re- 
port, and their secret journal, triumphantly refute such a charge. 
And it is further maintained that the actual operation of the pro- 
<?e«idings of the convention, was, instead of rousing opposition to 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. S51 

xht general government, to soothe the publick apprehensions, 
and quiet that restless anxiety which pervaded the country. 

Section XLIII. As early as the month of 
September, indications of no dubious character 
were given, that notwithstanding the negotia- 
tions pending between the American and British 
commissioners at Ghent, serious preparations 
were making for an invasion of Louisiana. 
About December 5th, certain intelligence was 
received that a British fleet, consisting of sixty 
sail, was off the coast to the east of the Missis- 
sippi. In the course of the month, fifteen thou- 
sand troops were landed, under the command of 
Sir Edward Packenham, and, on the 8th of 
January, they attacked the Americans, amount- 
ing to about six thousand, chiefly militia, in 
their intrench ments, before New-Orleans. Af- 
ter an engagement of more than an hour, the 
enemy, having lost their commander in chief, 
and Major-General Gibbs, and having been cut 
to pieces in an almost unexampled degree, fled 
in confusion, leaving their dead and wounded on 
the field of battle. 

On the receipt of intelligence that the enemy were off the 
coast of the Mississippi, Commodore Patterson despatched five 
gun boats to watch their motions. These boats being unfortiH 
nately captured, the enemy were left to choose their point of at- 
tack, entirely unmolested. 

A part of the British forces were landed on the 22d of De- 
cember, and several engagements took place between them and 
the Americans, some miles from New-Orleans, but nothing de- 
cisive was effected on either side. 

During these preliminar}' engagements, Gen. Jackson, com- 
manding at New-Orleans, had been diligently employed in pre- 
parations to defend the place. His front was a straight line of 
one thousand yards, defended by upwards of three thousand in- 
fantry and artillerists. The ditch contained five feet of water, 
and his front, from having been flooded by opening the levees, 
and by frequent rains, was rendered slippery and muddy. Eight 
iistinct batteries were judiciously disposed, mounting in all twelve 



352 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

^ns of different calibres. On the opposite side of the river was 
a strong battery of fifteen guns. 

On the morning of the 8th of January, General Packenham 
brought up his forces, amounting to twelve tliousand men, to the 
attack. The British dehberately advanced in solid columns, 
over an even plain, in front of the American intrenchments, the 
men carrying, besides their muskets, fascines, and some of them 
ladders. 

A solemn silence now prevailed through the American lines, 
until the enemy approached within reach of the batteries, which 
at that moment opened an incessant and destructive cannonade. 
The enemy, notwithstanding, continued to advance, closing up 
their ranks as fast as they were opened by the fire of the Ame- 
ricans. 

At length, they came within reach of the musketry and rifles. 
The extended American line now unitedly presented one sheet 
of fire, and poured in upon the British columns, an unceasing 
tide of death. Hundreds fell at every discharge, and by columns 
were swept away. 

Being unable to stand the shock, the British became disorder- 
ed and fled. In an attempt to rally them, Gen. Packenham was 
killed. Generals Gibbs and Kean succeeded in pushing for- 
ward their columns a second time, but the second approach was 
still more fatal than the first. The fires again rolled from the 
American batteries, and from thousands of muskets. The ad- 
vancing columns again broke and fled ; a few platoons only 
reached the edge of the ditch, there to meet a more certain de- 
struction. In a third but unavailing attempt to lead up their 
troops, Generals Gibbs and Kean were severely wounded, the 
former mortally. 

The field of battle now exhibited a scene of extended carnage. 
Seven hundred brave soldiers were sleeping in death, and one 
thousand four hundred were wounded. Five hundred were made 
prisoners — making a loss to the British, on this memorable day, 
of near three thousand men. The Americans lost in the en- 
gagement only seven killed, and six wounded. 

The enemy now sullenly retired, and on the night of the l8th, 
evacuated their camp, and, with great secresy, embarked on 
board their shipping. 

Section XLIV. The news of the victory at 
New-Orleans spread with haste through the 
United States, and soon after was followed by 
the still more welcome tidings of a treaty^ of 
peace, which was signed at Ghent, on the 24th of 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 353 

December, 1814. On the 1 7th of February, this 
treaty was ratified by the president and senate. 

Upon the subjects for which the war had been professedly 
declared, the treaty, thus conckided, was silent. It provided 
only for the suspension of hostilities — the exchange of prisoners — 
the restoration of territories and possessions obtained by the 
<;ontending powers, during the war — the adjustment of unsettled 
boundaries — and for a combined effort to efi'ect the entire abo- 
lition of traifick in slaves. 

But whatever diversity of opinion had prevailed about the 
justice or policy of the war — or now prevailed about the merits 
of the treaty — ail parties welcomed the return of peace. The 
solv^ier gladly exchanged the toils of the camp for the rest of his 
home ; the mariner once more spread his canvass to the wind, 
and, fearless of molestation, -joyfully stretched his way on the 
ocean ; and the yeomanry of the land, unaccustomed to the din 
of arms, gladly returned to their wonted care of the field, and 
the flock. 

Section XLV. The treaty with England was 
followed, on the 30th of June, 1815, by a treaty 
with the dey of Algiers, concluded at Algiers at 
that time, by William Shaler, and Com. Stephen 
Decatur, assents for the United States. 

The war which thus ended by treaty was commenced by tlie 
dey himself, as early as tlie year 181^ At that time the Ame- 
rican consul, JMr. Lear, was suddenly ordered to depart from 
Algiers, (m account of the arrival of a cargo v>^ naval and mili- 
tary stores, for the regency of Algiers, in fulfilment of treaty 
stipulations, which the dej^ alleged were not such in quantity or 
quality as he expected. At the same time, depredations were 
commenced upon our commerce. Several American vessels 
were captured and condemned, and their crews subjected tc 
slavery. 

Upon a representation of the case, by the president, to con 
gress, that body formally declared war against the dey in 
March. Soon after an American squadron sailed for the Me- 
diterranean, captured an Algerioe hxVs, and a forty-four gui 
frigate, and at length appeared before Algiers. 

The respectability of the American force, added to the two 
important victories already achieved, had prepared the way for 
the American commissioners to dictate a treaty upon such a 
basis as they pleased. Accordingly, the model of a treaty was 
sent to the dey, who signed it. By this treaty, the United States 
were exempted from paying tribute in future — captured prooertv 



354 PERIOD X....1809....1817. 

was to be restored by the dey — prisoners to be delivered up 
without ransom, &c. &c. 

Section XL VI. By the ninth article of the 
treaty between the United States and Great 
Britain, it was stipulated by the former, that 
measures should be immediately taken to esta- 
blish a peace with tiic several tribes of Indians, 
which had been engaged in hostilities against 
the United States. Such measures were accord- 
ingly taken, and, in his message, December, 
1815, the president communicated to congress, 
that a renew^al of treaties had readily been ac- 
ceded to by several tribes, and that other more 
distant tribes would probably follow their exam- 
ple, upon proper explanations. 

Section XLVII. The treaty with Great Bri- 
tain, which ended the war, left the subject of 
commercial intercourse between the two nations 
to future negotiation. In the summer following 
the close of the war, plenipotentiaries, respect- 
ively appointed by the two countries for that 
purpose, met at Linden, and on the third of 
July, signed " a convention, by which to regu- 
late the commerce between the territories of the 
United States, and of his Britanick majesty." 

This convention provided for a reciprocal liberty of com- 
merce between the two countries — for an equalization of duties 
on importations and exportations from either country to the 
other — and for the admission of American vessels to the princi- 
pal settlements of the British dominions in the East Indies, viz. 
Madrasj Calcutta, Bombay, &c. Of this convention the presi- 
dent spoke in terms of approbation, in his message to congress ; 
but by a large portion of the community it was received with 
coldness, from an apprehension that it would operate unfavour- 
ably to America, and would seriously abridge her commerce. 
The convention was to be binding only for four years. 

Section XLVIII. By the second article of the 
treaty with Great Britain, it was agreed, that all 
vessels, taken by either power, within twelve 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 355 

days from the exchange of ratifications, between 
twenty-three degrees and fifty degrees of north 
latitude, should be considered lawful prizes. 
A longer p^i^iod was stipulated for more distant 
latitudes. Within the time limited by this arti- 
cle, several actions took place, and several ves- 
sels of various descriptions were captured by 
each of the belligerents. The frigate President 
v/as taken January 15th, 1815, by a British 
squadron : the British ships Cyane, Levant, and 
Penguin, were captured by the Americans. 

In consequence of the coDtiniied blockade of Commodore De- 
catur's squadron at New-London, that officer was transferred to 
the President, then at New-York. Soon after taking command 
of her, a cruise was contemplated by the commodore, in con- 
junction with the Peacock, Hornet, and Tom Bowline. Think- 
ing it more safe to venture out singly, the commodore appoint- 
ed a place of rendezvous for the vessels, and set sail in the Pre- 
sident. Through the carelessness of the pilot, his vessel, in 
passing out, struck upon the bar. M'here she lay for two hours 
tossing about, by which her ballast was deranged, and her trim 
for sailing lost. Trusting to the excellence of his vessel, how- 
ever, and not being able to return to port, the commodore put 
out to sea. 

At daylight, he fell in with a British squadron, consisting of 
the Endymion, Tenedos, and Pomone frigates, with the Majes- 
tick razee. In spite of every exertion, they gained upon him ; 
at length the Endymion came within reach, and opened her fire. 
Commodore Decatur determined to engage her before the other 
vessels should come up. This he now did, and in a short time 
completely silenced her. By this time, the rest of the squadron 
liad arrived; being unwilling to sacrifice his men in a useless 
contest, on receiving the fire of the nearest frigate, he surrender- 
ed. Commodore Decatur was taken on board the Endymion, 
and although she was only a wreck, he was required to surren- 
der his sword to the officer of that vessel. To this the spirit of 
Decatur could not submit, and he indignantly refused to relin- 
quish it to any one, but to the conxmander of the squadron. 

The Cyane, a frigate of thirty-four guns, and the Levant, a 
sloop of eighteen thirty pound carronades, were taken by the 
Constitution about the same time. 

The Peacock, Hornet, and Tom Bowhne, left New- York a 
(tw days after tlie sailing of the President, without having h^ard 



356 PERIOD X....180d....l817. 

of her capture. On the 23d of January, the Hornet parted 
company, and directed her course towards Tristan d'Acuna, 
the place of rendezvous. On the 23d of March, she descried 
the British brig Penguin, of eighteen guns and a twelve pound 
carronade, to the southward and eastward of the island. Cap- 
tain Biddle hove to while the Penguin bore down. At forty 
Riinutes past one, the British brig opened her fire. After fif- 
teen minutes the Penguin gradually neared the Hornet with an 
intention to board, the captain having given orders for that pur- 
pose. At this time, he was killed by a grape shot. Her lieu- 
tenant then bore her up, and running her bowsprit between the 
main and mizzen rigging of the Hornet, gave orders to board. 
His men, however, perceiving the crew of the Hornet ready to 
receive them, refused to follow him. At this moment the heavy 
swells of the sea lifted the Hornet ahead. The commander of 
the Penguin called out that he had surrendered, and Captain 
Biddle ordered his men to cease firing. 

Immediately after this, an officer of the Hornet called to Cap- 
tain Biddle, that a man in the enemy's shrouds was taking aim 
at him. Before he could change his position, a musket ball 
struck him in the neck, and wounded him severely. Two ma- 
rines immediately levelled their pieces, and killed the wretch 
before he had brought his gun from his shoulder. The crew of 
the Hornet, indignant at this outrage, demanded to give the 
enemy a fresh broadside, and the vessel had nearly wore round 
for the purpose, before Captain Biddle could restrain the justly 
exasperated crew. The loss of the Penguin was fourteen in 
killed, and twenty-eight wounded. The Hornet had one killed 
and eleven wounded. The former vessel was so seriously in- 
jured, that Captain Biddle sunk her. 

Section XLIX. The attention of congress, 
during their session in the year 1815 — 1816, 
was called to a bill, which had for its object the 
incorporation of a National Bank. In the dis- 
cussion which followed, much diversity of opi- 
nion was found to prevail, not only as to the 
constitutional power of congress to establish 
such an institution, but also as to the principles 
upon which it should be modelled. After 
weeks of animated debate, a bill incorporating 
the " Bank of the United States,^^' with a capi- 
tal of thirty-five millions of dollars, passed, and 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. S57 

on Wednesday, April 10th, received the signa- 
ture of the president. 

Of the stock of the bank, seven millions were to be subscribed 
by the United States, the remaining twenty-eight by individuals. 
The afi'airs of the corporation were to be managed by twenty- 
five directors, five of whom were to be chosen by the president, 
with the advice and consent of the senate ; the remainder to be 
elected by the stockholders, at the banking house in Philadel- 
phia. The charter of the bank is to continue in force until the 
3d of March, 1836. 

L. The summer of 1816 passed away with- 
out being marked by any events of pecuhar mo- 
ment. The country appeared to be gradually 
recovering from the embarrassments induced 
hy the war, and that asperity of feeling, which 
had agitated the different political parties in the 
United States, was visibly wearing away. Con- 
gress met in December. In the conclusion of 
his message at the opening of the session, Mr. 
Madison, anticipating the speedy arrival of the 
day, when he should retire from the presidency, 
took occasion to express his attachment for his 
country, and his wishes for her future peace and 
prosperity : 

" I can indulge the proud reflection," said he, " that the 
American people have reached in safety and success, their for- 
tieth year, as an independent nation ; that for nearly an entire 
generation, they have had experience of their present constitu- 
tion, the offspring of their undisturbed deliberations and of their 
free choice ; that they have found it to bear the trials of adverse 
as well as prosperous circumstances, to contain in its combina- 
tien of the federate and elective principles, a reconcilement of 
publick strength with individual liberty, of national power, for 
the defence of national rights, with a security against wars of 
injustice, of ambition, or of vain glory, in the fundamental pro- 
vision which subjects all questions of war to the will of the na- 
tion itself, which is to pay its costs, and feel its calamities. Nor 
is it less a peculiar felicity of this constitution, so dear to us all, 
that it is found to be capable, without losing its vital energies, 
of expanding itself over a spacious territory, with the increase 



358 PERIOD X....1809....1817, 

and expansion of the community, for whose benefit it was esta 
Wished." 

Section LI. In December 1816, Indiana be 
came an independent state, and was received 
into the union. 

Detached places in Indiana were settled by the French, up- 
wards of a century ago. The exact period, at which the first 
settlement was made, is uncertain. 

In 1763, the territory was ceded by France to England. By 
the treaty of Greenville in 1795, the United States obtained oi 
the Indians several small grants of land within this territory ; 
and, in subsequent years, still more extensive tracts. During 
the war with England, which broke out in 1812, Indiana was 
the scene of many Indian depredations, and of many unusually 
severe battles, between the hostile tribes, and the troops of the 
United States. Until 1801, Indiana formed a part of the great 
north-western territory, but, at that date, it was erected into a 
territorial government, with the usual powers and privileges. 
In December 1815, the inhabitants amounting to sixty thousand, 
the legislature petitioned congress for admission into the union, 
and the privilege of forming a state constitution. A bill for this 
purpose passed congress, in April I8l6; a convention of dele- 
gates met in conformity to it, by which a constitution was adopt- 
ed, and Indiana became an independent state, and a member of 
the union in December following. 

Section LII. 1817. On Wednesday, Febru- 
ary 12th, the votes for Mr. Madison's successor 
were counted in the presence of both houses of 
congress, when it appeared that James Monroe 
was elected president, and Daniel D. Tompkins 
vice-president of the United States, for the four 
years from and after the 4th of the ensuing 
March. 



Notes- 

Section LIII. ^atintVU* The only no- 
ticeable change of manners, which seems to 
have taken place during this period, arose from 
the spirit of pecuniary speculation, which per- 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 35^ 

vaded the country during the war. Money wa« 
borrowed with facihty, and fortunes were often 
made in a day. Extravagance and profligacy 
were, to some extent, the consequence. The 
return of peace, and the extensive misfortunes 
which fell upon every part of the community, 
counteracted these vices, and restored more so- 
ber and industrious habits. 

Section LIY, SXrUflfOU* During thi§ peri- 
ed, extensive revivals of religion prevailed, and 
liberal and expanded plans were devised and 
commenced for the promotion of Christianity. 
Several theological institutions were founded, 
missionary and bible societies were established, 
and a great call for ministers of the gospel was 
heard. 

Section LV. ^VU'Ht UUXf fS^OmmtVtt^ 
During this period, trade and commerce were 
crippled by foreign restrictions, our own acts of 
non-intercourse, and, at length, by the war with 
England. During this war our carrying trade 
was destroyed, nor was it restored by the peace 
of 1815. 

On the return of peace, immense importations 
were made from England, the country being des- 
titute of English merchandise. The market 
was soon glutted, prices fell, and extensive bank- 
ruptcies were the consequence. 

Section LVl. ^StlCttltUrr* Agriculture, 
during this period, cannot be said to have made 
great advances. 

^ An excessive disposition in tiie people, for trade and specula- 
tion, drew off the attention ol" the more intelligent and active part 
of the community, and directed much of the capital of the coun- 
try to other objec:s. Upon the return of peace, however, when 
mercantile distresses overspread the land, agricuhure was ap-ain 
resorted to, as one of the surest means of obtaining a livelihood. 
Men of capital, too, turned their attention to farming; agricul- 



3(3U 



PERIOD X....1S09....1817. 



tural societies were established, in all parts of tne country : more 
enlightened methods of culture were introduced, and agriculture 
became not only one of the most profitable, but one of the most 
popular objects of pursuit. 

Sectioji Lvii. ^xtu JintT J41anttfac= 

tUXtU* During the war which occurred in this 
period, the intercourse with England and other 
places, being stopped, the country was soon des- 
titute of those articles which had been supplied 
by English manufactories. Accordingly, the 
people began to manufacture for themselves. 
Extensive manufacturing establishments were 
started for almost every sort of merchandise. — 
Such was their success at the outset, that an im- 
mense capital was soon invested in them, and 
the country began to be supplied with almost 
every species of manufacture from our own es- 
tablishments. After the peace, the country be- 
ing inundated with British goods, these esta- 
bli.shments suffered the severest embarrass- 
ments, and many of them w^ere entirely broken 
down. A considerable portion of them, how- 
ever, were maintained, and continued to flou- 
rish. 

Section LVIII. I^OJIUlatiOH* At the expi- 
ration of Mr. Madison's term of office, in 1817, 
the number of inhabitants in the United States 
was about nine millions, five hundred thousand. 
Section LIX. S^ttta^tfOtl* The pecuniary 
embarrassments experienced throughout the 
country, during the latter part of tiiis period, 
sensibly affected some institutions devoted to 
science and benevolence, especially those which 
depend, in part, upon the yearly contril^utions 
of the patrons of learning and religion, for the 
means of support. In several of the higher se- 
minaries, the number of students was, for a 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION 

time, diminished. Nevertheless, parochial 
schools, academies, and colleges, upon the 
whole, continued to increase, and to qualify 
many for the common and higher p ofessions of 
life. 

A theological institution was established at P» inceton, New- 
Jersey, in 181:^, by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian 
Church. In 1821, the theoiog'cal seminary of the Associate 
Reformed Church, in New-York, was united to that of Prince- 
ton, and its library, consisting of four thousand volames, which 
cost seventeen thousand dollars, was traLsierred to the latter 
place. This semiiiary has three professors, and in 1821, had 
seventy-three students. 

During the same year, Hamilton College was incorporated 
at Clinton, New-York ; it has been liberally patronised by the 
legislature, and by individuals. 

31 



UNITED STATES. 



mviOtJi XK. 



DISTINGUISHED FOR MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION, 

Extending from, the inauguration of President 
Monroe^ 1817, to the close of the year 18:22. 

Section I. On the 4th of March, 1817, Mr. 
Monroe took the oath prescribed by the consti- 
tution, and entered upon the duties of president 
of the United States. 

The condition of the country, on the accession of Mr. Mon- 
roe to the presidency, was in several respects more prosperous 
and happy, than on the accession of his predecessor. Not only 
'lad war ceased, and the political asperity, excited by it, given 
place to better feelings, but efforts were made in eveiy section 
of the union, to revive those plans of business, which the war 
had nearly annihilated. — The country had suffered too much, 
however, to regain, immediately, its former prosperity. Coni- 
nierce was far from being flourishing ; a considerable part of 
the legitimate trade was in the hands of foreigners ; many ships 
were lying unemployed, and the ship building in many ports 
had nearly ceased. The manuf;ictining establishments, which 
had not been entirely broken down, were sustaining a precarious 
existence. Foreign merchandise was inundating the coujitry ; 
and the specie, borrowed in Europe for the national bank, at an 
^excessive premium, as well as that which was previously in the 
country, was rapidly leaving it to pay the balance of trade 
against us.* In his inaugural address, however, the president 



* The Bank of the United States commenced the importation of specie 
-U 1817, and introduced into the coiintry seven millions, three hundred 
and eleven thousand, seven hundred and fifty dollars, at an expense of 
more than half a million of dollars. As fast as this specie arrived it was 
re-shipped to Europe, to pay the balance of trade against the United 
States, or sent tc India or China to purchase merchandise. With this 



MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. S63 

spoke in animating terms of the happy state of the country, and 
of its prospects of regaining, at no distant period, that measure 
of prosperity, which in former years it had enjoyed. 

Sectio7t II. In the summer and autumn, fol- 
lowing his inauguration, the president made a 
tour through the northern and eastern states of 
the union. 

The objects of this tour were connected with the national in- 
terests. Congress had appropriated large sums of money for 
the fortification of the sea coast, and inland frontiers, for the es- 
tablishment of naval docks, and for increasing the navy. The 
superintendence of these works belonged to the president. So- 
licitous to discharge his (\u\.y in reference to them with judgment, 
fidehty, and economy, he was induced to visit the most import- 
ant points along the sea coast, and in the interior, from a con- 
viction of being better able to direct in reference to them, with 
the knowledge derived from personal cfbservation, *han by means 
of information communicated to him by others. He left Wash- 
ington on the 1st of June, accompanied by Gen. Joseph C. 
Swift, chief engineer of the United States, and his private secre- 
tary, Mr. Mason. Passing through Baltimore, Philadelphia, 
New-York, New-Haven, Hartford, New-London, and Provi- 
dence, he arrived in Boston, in v^'hich place and its vicinity, he 
spent several days. 

On leaving Boston, he continued eastward to Portland, through 
Salem, Newburyport, and Portsmouth ; and thence directed his 
course westward to Plattsburg, in the state of New-York. In 
his route thither, he passed through Dover, Concord, and Hano- 
ver, in New-Hampshire, and through Windsor, and Burlington, 
in Vermont. The important post of Plattsburg occupied his 
close attention for s« veral days. From this latter place he con- 
tinued westward, to Ogdensburg, Sackett's Harbour, and De- 
troit. Having now effected the leading objects of his tour, he 
commenced his return to the seat of government through the in- 
terior of Ohio. At the close of the day, Sept. I7th, he entered 
Washington, after having been absent more than three months. 



specie went a large portion of that which was in the country at the close 
of the war. The exportation of specie from the United States to Chinm, 
alone, in t'rtee years, amounted to above seventeen millions of dollar* 
Vr'z :— 1816-17 ^4,572,000 

17-18 5,300,000 

18-19 7,414,000 



^17,286,000 



3f)4 PERIOD XI....1817....1822. 

and having travelled three thousand miles. In the course of hi« 
tour, the president examined the various fortifieations on the sea 
board, and in the interior, visited publick buildings and institi»- 
tions, devoted to the purposes of literature, the arts, and general 
benevolence.— Although undesirous of attracting publick atten- 
tion on a tour, whose object was the good of his country, he was 
met by a respectable deputation from the various places, through 
which it was understood he would pass, and in lively and patri* 
otick addresses was welcomed to their hospitality. 

Section III. Congress met on the 1st of De- 
cember. In his message at the opening of the 
session, the president stated that the national 
credit was attaining a high elevation ; that pre- 
parations for the defence of the country were 
progressing, under a well digested system ; that 
arrangements had been made with Great Britain 
to reduce the naval force of the two countries on 
the western lakes, and that it was agreed that 
each country should keep possession of the isl- 
ands which belonged to it before the war ; and 
that the foreign relations of the country conti- 
nued to be pacifick. The message concluded 
with recommending the surviving officers and 
soldiers of the revolutionary army to the special 
notice of congress, and the repeal of the inter- 
nal duties, on the ground that the state of the 
treasury rendered their longer continuance un- 
necessary. 

Section IV. On the 11th, the state of Missis- 
sippi was acknowledged by congress as sove- 
reign and independent, and was admitted to the 

union. 

The first European, who visited the present state of Missis- 
sippi, appears to have been Ferdinand de Soto, a native of Ba- 
da.joz, in Spain, who landed on the coast of Florida on the 25th 
of May, 1539. He spent three years in the country searching 
for gold, but at length died, and was buried on the banks of the 
Mississippi, May, 1542. 

In 1683, M. de Salle descended the Mississippi and gave the 
name of Louisiana to the country. In consequence of this, the 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 365 

French claimed to have jurisdiction over it. In iT'iG, they formed 
a settlement at the Natchez, and built a fort, which they nam- 
ed Rosalie, Other settlements were effected in subsequent years. 
The French settlements were, however, seriously disturbed by 
the Indians, particularly by the Natchez, once the most power- 
ful of all the southern tribes. 

The French retained an acknowledged title to the country, 
on the east side of the Mississippi, until the treaty of 1763, 
when they ceded their possessions, east of that river, to the 
English. By the treaty of 1783, Great Britain relinquished the 
Floridas to Spain, without specifick boundaries; and at the 
same time, ceded to the United States all the country north of 
the thirty-first degree of latitude. Tlie Sj)aniards retained pos- 
session of the Natchez and the ports north of the thirty-first de- 
gree, until 1798, when tliey finally abandoned them to the Unit- 
ed States. 

In the year 1800, the territory between the Mississippi and 
the western boundary of Georgia was erected into a distinct 
territorial government. By treaty in 1801, at fort Adams, the 
Choctaw Indians relinquished to the United States a large body 
of land, and other cessions have since been made. On the 1st 
of March, 1817? congress autiiorised the people of the western 
part of J\lississippi territory to form a constitution and state go- 
vernment. A convention met in July, 1817, by which a consti- 
tution was formed, and in December following, Mississippi was 
admitted into the union as a separate state. 

Section V. In the course of the same month, 
Mil expedition which liad been set on foot by a 
number of adventurers, from ditferent countries, 
against East and West Florida, was terminated 
by the troops of the United States. These ad- 
venturers ciaiiiijad to be acting under the autho- 
rity of some of the South American colonies, and 
had formed an establishment at Amelia Island, a 
Spanish province, then the subject of negotia- 
tion between the United States and Spain.-— 
Their avowed object being an invasion of the 
Floridas, and of course an invasion of a part of 
the United States, the American government 
deemed itself authorized, without designing any 
hostility to Spain, to take possession of Amelia 
Island, their head quarters. 



S66 PERIOD XI....1817....1822. 

A similar establislimertt had previously been formed at Gal- 
veztoii, a small island on the coast of the Texas, claimed by the 
United States. From both of these places privateers were fitted 
out, which greatly annoyed our regular commerce. Prizes 
were sent in, and by a pretended court of admiralty, condemned 
and sold. Slaves, in great numbers, were shipped through these 
Islands to the United States, and through the same channel ex- 
tensive clandestine importations of goods were made. Justly 
apprehending the results of these establishments, if suffered to 
proceed unmolested, the executive took early measures to sup- 
press them. Accordingly, a naval force, with the necessary 
troops, was despatched under command of Captains Henly and 
Bankhead, to v/hom Amelia Island was surrendered, on the 
24th of December, without the effusion of blood. The sup- 
pression of Galvezton followed soon after. 

Section VI. Several bills of importance pass- 
ed congress, during their session, in the winter 
of 1817, 1818; a bill alloAving to the members 
of th'5 senate, and house of representatives, the 
sum of eight dollars per day, during their attend- 
ance; a second, in compliance with the recom- 
mendation of the president, abolishing the in- 
ternal duties ; and a third, providing, upon the 
same recommendation, for the indigent officers 
and soldiers of the revolutionary army. 

The compensation bill, as it was called, excited much sensa- 
tion throughout the nation, on the ground that the sum was un- 
necessarily enhanced, and gave occasion to long and animated 
debates on the floor of the house of representatives. By a por- 
tion of the representatives, strenuous efforts were made to fix the 
per diem allowance at six dollars, while others attempted to 
raise it to nine or ten. After a protracted discussion of the 
subject, it was fixed at eight dollars. 

Against the repeal of the internal dutie-, few objections were 
urged. The recommendation of the president to repeal them 
was anticipated, and on takinf]^ the vote in the house of repre- 
sentatives, one hundred and sixty were found in favour of the 
bill, and but five voices against it. 

In calling the attention of congress to the happy situation of 
the United States, the president, in his message, adverted with 
much sensibility, to the survivinu^ officers and soldiers of the 
revolutionarv army, who, by their services had laid the founda- 
tion of American glorv. Most of those who survived the 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 3^7 

achievement of our independence, said he, have paid the debt of 
nature. Among the survivors there are some, who are reduced 
to indigence, and even to real distress. These men have a claim 
on the gratitude of their country, and it vv^ill do honour to their 
country to provide for them. The lapse of a few more years, 
and the opportunity will be lost forever, as they will all have 
gone to the grave. In compliance with this recommendation, 
a bill was introduced into congress, which, after some amend- 
ments, passed, granting to indigent officers of the revolutionary 
army the sum of twenty dollars, per month, during life, and of 
eight dollars, per month, during life, to indigent non-commis- 
sioned officers and privates. 

Section VII. In April 1818, Illinois adopted 
a state constitution, and in December following, 
was admitted as a member of the union. 

Illinois derives its name from its principal river, which, in 
the language of the Indians, signifies the river of men. The 
first settlements, like those of Indiana, were made by the 
French, and were the consequence of the adventurous enterpri- 
ses of M. de la Salle, in search of the IVKssissippi. — The first 
settlements were the villages of Kaskaskia and Cahokia. In 
the beginning of the eighteenth century, the settlements of Illi- 
nois were represented to have been in a flourishing condition. 
But subsequently they in a great measure declined. 

From the beginning to the middle of the eighteenth century, 
little was heard of the settlements of the French, on the banks 
of the Illinois. About 1749, the French began to fortify the 
Wabash and Illinois, in order to resist the British. In 1762, all 
the country to the east of the Mississippi was ceded to the latter 
power, and consequently Illinois passed und^r the British do- 
minion. At the peace of 1783, Great Britain renounced its 
claims of sovereignty over this country, as well as over the 
United States. Virginia, however, and some other states, 
claimed the whole country, north and west of the Ohio ; but at 
the instance of congress, a cession of these claims was made to 
the general government. Illinois remained a part of Indiana 
until 1809? when a distinct territorial government was establish- 
ed for it. In 1818, the people formed a constitution, and it is 
now one of the United States. 

Section VII. Early after the conclusion of 
this session of congress, the president, in pursu- 
ance of his determination to visit such parts of 
the United States as were most exposed to the 
naval and military forces of an enemy, prepared 



368 PERIOD XI....1817....1822. 

to survey the Chesapeake bay, and the country 
lying on its extensive shores. 

In the month of May, he left Washington, accompanied by 
the secretary of war, and the secretary of the navy, with other 
gentlemen of distinction. On his arrival at Annapolis, the pre- 
sident and his suite minutely examined the waters contiguous, 
in reference to their fitness for a naval depot. Embarking at this 
place on board a vessel, he further examined the coast, and 
thence proceeded to Norfolk. Having at length accomplished 
the principal object of his tour, in the examination of the Che- 
sapeake bay, he returned to Washington, June 17th, through 
the interior of Virginia. The respectful, and affectionate de- 
monstrations of attachment, paid to him during his; northern 
tour, were renewed in this. 

Section IX. On the 27th of May, 1818, a trea- 
ty, conchided with Sweden, at Stockholm, on the 
4th of September, 1816, by Mr. Russel, minis- 
ter plenipotentiary to that court, was ratified by 
the president and senate, on the part of the 
United States. The same was ratified by the 
king of Sweden on the 24th of the following 
July. 

This treaty provided for maintaining peace and friendship 
between the two count jies — reciprocal liberty of commerce — 
equalization of duties, &c. &c. The treaty was to continue in 
k>j ce for eight years from the exchange of ratifications. 

Section X. During the year 1818, a war was 
carried on between the S< minole Indians, and 
the United States, which terminated in the com 
plete discomfiture of the former. 

The history of this war is rendered the more interesting by 
the conspicuous part which the hero of New-Orleans bore in it, 
and the decisive, though novel measures which he adopted in 
prosecuting it. 

The Indians, denominated Seminolelndians, inhabited a tract 
of country, partly within the limits of the United States, but a 
greater part of which lies within the boundaries of the Floridas. 
They originally consisted of fugitives from the northern tribes, 
resident within the limits of the United States. After the treaty 
of 1814 with the Creek Indians, a considerable addition was 
made to these fugitives from the Creeks, numbers of whom, be- 
ing dissatisfied with the provisions of that treaty, withdrew to 



MONROE'S ADIVHNISTRATION. 369 

the Seminoles, carrying with them feelings of hostility againsi 
the United States. These feelings seem to have been much 
strengthened by foreign emissaries, who had taken up their re^ 
sidence among them for the purposes of trade, among whom, as 
the most conspicuous, were two EngHshmen, Alexander Ar 
buthnot and Robert C. Ambrister. Many outrages were per- 
petrated from time to time, by the Indians, upon the border in- 
habitants, and several murders, under aggravated circumstances, 
were committed. Moreover, with a demand by General Gaines, 
the United States' officer, in that quarter, to deliver up the of- 
fenders, the Indians refused to comply, alleging that the first 
and greatest aggressions had proceeded from the whites. In 
consequence of this refusal. Gen. Gaines was instructed, by the 
secretary of war, to remove, at his discretion, such Indians as 
were still on the lands ceded to the United States by the Creeks 
in 1814. 

Pursuant to this discretionary authority, Gen. Gaines detached 
a party of near three hundred men, under command of Major 
Twiggs, to take an Indian village called Fowl Town, about four- 
teen miles from fort Scott, and near the Florida line. In execut- 
ing this order, one man and one woman were killed, and two 
women made prisoners. A few days after, as a second detach- 
ment were on a visit to the Town, to obtain property, they were 
fired upon, and a skirmish ensued, in which several on both 
sides were killed and wounded. Shortly after this event. Lieu- 
tenant Scott, with a detachment of forty men, seven women, and 
some children, ascending the Appalachicola, with supplies for 
the garrison at Fort Scott, were attacked, and the whole party 
killed, excepting six men, who made their escape, and a woman 
who was taken prisoner. 

From this time, the war became serious. The Indians, in 
considerable numbers, were embodied, and an open attack was 
made on Fort Scott, to which General Gaines with about six hun- 
dred regular soldiers was for a time confined. Information of 
this state of things being communicated to the department of 
war, General Jackson was ordered, Dec. 26, to take the field, 
and directed, if he should deem the force with General Gaines, 
amounting to one thousand and eight hundred men, insufficient 
to cope with the enemy, "to call on the executives of the adja- 
cent states for such an additional militia force as he might deem 
requisite." On the receipt of this order, General Jackson pre- 
pared to comply; but instead of calling upon the executives of 
the neighbouring states, especially upon the governour of Ten- 
nessee, who lived near his residence, he addressed a circular to 



370 PERIOD XI....181 7. .,1822. 

the patriots of West Tennessee, inviting one tnousand of them 
to join his standard.* 

At the same time he wrote to the governour of Tennessee, 
M'Minn, informing him of the appeal he had made to the men 
whom he had led to victory on the plains of Talledega, Emuck- 
faii, and Tohopeko, and added, " should the appeal prove ineffi- 
cacious, I will embrace the earliest opportunity of making the 
requisition on you for a like number of drafted militia." The 
call of General Jackson was promptly obeyed, and the thousand 
volunteers, officered by the general,t or by the volunteers them- 
selves, were ordered to Fort Scott. 

Before taking up his march, he wrote, Jan. 12th, to the secre- 
tary of war, apprising him of the appeal he had made to the Ten- 
nesseeans, assigning as his reason for such a step, that he deemed 
the force with general Gaines, one thousand eight hundred, in- 
sufficient, and " that the greater portion of this number were 
irafted militia from Georgia, who might apply for their discharge 
at the expiration of three months from the time they were mus- 
tered,'' about the time he should probably reach Fort Scott. To 
this communication the secretary replied — " I have the honour 
to acquaint you of the entire approbation of the president, of all 
the measures which you have adopted to terminate the rupture 
with the Indians." 

With these troops, and a number of friendly Creeks, under 
Gen M'lntosh, raised by General Gaines, Jackson entered upon 
the Seminole war. 

As a considerable number of these Indians dwelt in Florida, 
it became necessary to pursue the enemy thither. Anticipating 
the necessity of this measure, the secretary of war issued an or- 
der to General Gaines, while he was in command, to pursue them 
into Florida if necessary, " and to attack them within its limits, 



* The apology oiFered by General Jackson for not calling upon the g-o- 
vernour of Tennessee Avas, that at the time the order was issued, for him 
t-o take the field, the governour was either at Knoxville, or in the Chero- 
kee nation ; and that to have waited the result of the usual process of 
drafting, would have produced the two evils of much loss of valuable time, 
and the raising of a force reluctant in disposition, and inefl&cient in cha- 
racter and equipment. 

t It has been denied that General Jackson appointed the officers of the 
volunteer corps. " It is true," however, says his defence, (see Niles' Reg- 
ister Vol. 16, p. 52.) "that he appealed to the officers who had gallantly 
fought with him in the wilderness of the Creek nation and on the plains 
of New Orleans, and again roused them to the deffence of their frontiers. 
But their appointments to command were, in all cases, made by the choice 
of the men whom tliey (the officers to whom General Jackson had appeal- 
ed) brought into the field." 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. $71 

unless they should shelter themselves under a Spanish fort. In 
this last event you will immediately notity -his department." 

Deeming it necessary tor the subjugation of the Seininoles, to 
enter Florida, General Jackson marched upon St. Marks, a tieeble 
Spanish garrison, in which some Indians had taken retuge. Of 
this garrison. General Jackson quiedy took possession, and oc- 
cupied it as an American post.* At St. Marks was tound Alex- 
ander Arbuthnot, who was taken prisoner, and put in conliue- 
ment. At the same time were taken two Inoian chiefs, one of 
whom pretended to possess the spirit of prophecy ; they were 
hung without trial, f St. Marks being garrisoned by American 
troops, the army marched to Suwaney river, on which they found 
a large Indian village, which was consumed, after which the 
army returned to St. Marks, bringing with them Robert C. Am- 
brister, who had been taken prisoner on their march to Suwaney. 
During the halt of the army for a few days at St. Marks, a gene- 
ral court martial was called, upon whose result. General Jack- 
son issued the following general order. " At a special court 
martial, commenced on the 26th instant at St. Marks, and con- 
tinued until the night of the 28th, of which brevet Major-Gene- 
ral E. P. Gaines was president, was tried A. Arbuthnot, on the 
following charges and specifications, viz : 

Charge 1st, Exciting and stirring up the Creek Indians to 
war against the United States and her citizens, he, A. Arbuth- 
not, being a subject of Great Britain, with whom the United 
States are at peace. 

Charge 2d, Acting as a spy ; aiding, abetting, and comfort- 
ing the enemy, and supply ing^ them with the means of war. 

Charge 3d, Exciting the Indians to murder and destroy Wil- 
liam Hambly and Edmund Doyle, confiscate their property, 



+ This disobedience of the orders which had been given to General 
Gaines, not to attack a Spanish fort, but to notify the secretary of war, 
should any Indians take shelter under one, was defended by General Jack- 
son, on the ground, tliat orders issued to one officer could not be coiistrued 
as orders to his successor witliout a special reference to the first : — ^that liis 
orders were general and discretionary : — and that the circumstances contem- 
plated by the orders to General Gaines never existed. The Indians not 
being found under the guns of a Spanish foi-t, but sheltered within its walls. 

t In the defence of GeneralJackson, already aluded to, it is stated that 
Francis, the prophet, had long been a dire and dangerous foe to the Uni- 
ted States, that he had a brigadier's commission from Great Britain, and 
by his superstitious influence instigated his brethren to deeds of rapine 
and massacre. The other chief had headed the party, who, in cold bloody 
murdered Scott and his unhappy companions, while ascending the Appa- 
lachicola. These considerations the General deemed sufficient to justify 
the summary course, adopted in rcepect to them. 



372 PERIOD XI....1817....1822. 

and causing their arrest, with a view to their condemnation to 
death, and the seizure of their property, they being citizens of 
Spain, on account of their active and zealous exertions to main- 
tain peace between Spain, the United States, and the Indians. 

To which charges the prisoner pleaded not guilty. 

The court, after mature deliberation on the evidence adduced^ 
find the prisoner, A. Arbuthnot, guilty of the first charge, and 
guilty of the second charge, leaving out the words " acting as a 
spy ;■' and after mature reflection, sentence him, A. Arbuthnot, 
to he suspended by the neck, until he is dead. 

Was also tried, Robert C, Ambrister, on the following charges, 
viz. 

Charge 1st, Aiding, abetting, and comforting the enemy, and 
supplying them with the means of war, he being a subject of 
Great Britain, who are at peace with the United States, and late 
an officer in the British colonial marines. 

Charge 2d, Leading and commanding the lower Creek In- 
dians in carrying on a war against the United States. 

To which charges the prisoner pleaded as follows : to the 
first charge not guilty, to the second charge guilty, and justifica- 
tion." 

" The court, on examination of evidence, and on mature de- 
liberation, find the prisoner, Robert C. Ambrister, guilty of the 
first and second charges, and do therefore sentence him to suflfei 
death by being shot. The members requesting a reconsidera- 
tion of the vote on this sentence, and it being had, they sentence 
the prisoner to receive fifty stripes on his bare back, and be con- 
fined with a ball and chain, to hard labour for twelve calendar 
months. The commanding general approves the finding and 
sentence of the court, in the case of A. Arbuthnot, and approves 
the finding and ^rsf sentence of the court, in the case of Robert 

C. Ambrister, and disapproves the reconsideration of the sen- 
tence of th' honourable court in this case. 

" It appears from the evidence and pleading of the prisoner, 
that he did lead and command within the territory of Spain, 
(being a subject of Great Britain,) the Indians in war against the 
United States, those nations being at peace. It is an established 
principle of the laws of nations, that any individual of a nation, 
making war against the citizens of any other nation, they being 
at peace, forfeits his allegiance, and becomes an outlaw and pi- 
rate. This is the case of Robert C. Ambrister, clearly shown 
by the evidence adduced. 

" The commanding general orders that brevet Major A C. 

D. Fanning, of the corps of artillery, will have between the hours 
of eight and nine o'clock, A. M. A. Arbuthnot suspended by 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 3J3 

the neck with a rope, until he is dead, and Roberi C. Ambrister 
to be shot to death, agreeably to the sentence of the court." 

From St. Marks, General Jackson addressed communications 
to the secretary of war, informing him that the Indian forces 
had been divided and scattered, and that liis presence in that 
country could be no longer necessary ; and that he should soon 
leave St. Marks for Fort Garlsden, where, after making all ne- 
cessary arrangements to scour the country, he should retire. In- 
formation, however, was given him, some days after, that the 
governour of Fensacola was favouring the Indians. On learn- 
ing this, General Jackson, with his forces, took up his march for 
the capital of that province, before which, after a march of 
twenty da3'^s, he appeared. This place was taken with scarce 
the show of resistance. — The governour had escaped to Baran- 
cas, a fort six miles distant, to which place the array soon 
marched. The fortress was invested on the 25th of May, and 
a demand being made for its surrender, and refused, an attack 
upon it was made, both by sea and land, and, after a bombard- 
ment and cannonading of the place, fcr two Any^, the garrison 
surrendered, as prisoners of war, and the otiicers of the govern- 
ment, civil and military, were transported, agreeably io the 
terms of capitulation, to Havana. A nevf government was 
established for the province, the powers of which were vested 
partly in military officers, and partly in citizens of the province. 
General Jackson now announced to the secretary that the Semi- 
nole war was closed, and returned to his residence at Nashville. 
Some time after, the American executive, deeming the longer 
possession of the Spanish forts unnecessary to the peace of the 
country, and inconsistent with good faith to Spain, directed them 
to be restored, and accompanied the restoration with the reasons 
which had led to their occupation. 

The measures adopted by General Jackson in the prosecu- 
tion of this war — particularly his appeal to the people of West 
Tennessee — his conduct in relation to the trial and execution 
of Arbuthnot and Ambrister — and his occupation Qi St. Marks 
and Fensacola — excited strong sensations in the bosoms of a 
considerable portion of the American people. During the ses- 
sion of congress in the winder of 1818 — 18 19, these subjects were 
extensively and eloquently debated. By the military commit- 
tee of the house, a report was presented censurin^the conduct 
of General Jackson ; but, after an elaborate examination of the 
case, the house, by a majority of one hundred and eight, to 
sixty-two, refused its concurrence. Towards the close of the 
session a report uDfavoi.rable to General Jackson, >vas also 
brought forward in the senate,- but no vote of censure or regolis 
tion was attached, and no discussion of its merits was had» 

3*2 



374 PERIOD Xr....l8l7....l822. 

Section XI. On the 28th of January, 1819, a 
convention between Great Britain and the Unit- 
ed States, concluded at London, October 20th, 
1818, and ratified by the Prince Regent on the 
2d of November following, was ratified by the 
president of the United States. 

B]^ t!ie first article of this convention, the citizens of the Unit- 
ed States have liberty, in common with the subjects of Great 
Britain, to take fish on the southern, western, and northern coast 
of Newfoundland, &c. The second article establishes the north- 
ern bouiidaries ol the United States from the Lake of the Woods, 
to the Stoney Mountains. By the fourth article, the commer 
cial convention between the two countries, concluded at Lon 
don, in 1 8 IT;, is extended for the term of ten years longer, &c 
&c. 

Section XII. On the 22d of February, follow- 
ing, a treaty was c-yncluded at Washington, by 
John Quincy Adams, and Luis de Onis, by 
which East and West Florida, with all the Isl- 
ands adjacent, &c. were ceded by Spain to the 
United States. 

By this treaty the western boundary between the United 
States and Spain was settled. A sum not exceeding five rail- 
lions of dollars is to be paid by the United States out of the pro- 
ceeds of sales of lands in Florida, or in stock, or money, to citi- 
zens of the United States, on account of Spanish spoliations and 
injuries. To liquidate the claims, a board was cO be constituted 
Dy the gcvernment of the United States, of American citizens, 
to consist of three commissioners, who should report within 
ihree years. 

Such were the essential provisions of the above treaty, which 
was ratified by the president and senate on the 24th. Under a 
full confidence that it would, within six months, the time stif u- 
iatetl, be ratified b}; his Catholick Majesty. His majesty, how- 
ever, declined the ratification, on the ground that the American 
government had attempted to alter one of the principal articles 
of the treaty by a declaration, which the minister of the United 
States had been ordered to present, on the exchange of ratifica- 
tions ; and also on the ground that the government of the United 
States had recently tolerated o- protected an expedition from 
the United States against the province oi Texas. 

Ill a message to congress, the president satisfactorily explained 
these subjects, and suomitted to their consideration whether it 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 375 

would not be proper for the United States to carry the treaty 
into effect on her part, in the same manser as if it had been ra- 
tified by Spain, claiming on their part aH its advantage, and 
yielding to Spain those secured by her. A bill, authorizing the 
president to take possession of Florida, was mtroduced into 
the house, but the subject was postponed to the consideration of 
the next congress. In October, 1820, the king of Spain gave 
the treaty his signature. On the 19th of February following, 
1821, the president, with the advice of the senate, finally ratifi- 
ed the treaty. Formal possession of the territory was given to 
General Jackson, as the commissioner of the United States, in 
the month of July following. 

Section XlJI. On the 2d of March, 1819, the 
government of the Arkansas Territory was 
organized by act of congress. 

The earliest settlement, within the limits of the territory of 
Arkansas, was made by the Chevalier de Tonte,in 1685, at the 
Indian village of Arkansas, situated en the river of that name. 
Emigrants from Canada afterwards arrived, but the progress of 
settlement was slow. Upon the cession of Louisiana to the Unit- 
ed States, the ceded territory was divided into two parts, the 
territory of Orleans, lying south of latitude thirty degrees and 
the district of Louisiana, comprehending all the tract of coun- 
try between the Mississippi and the Pacifick Ocean. In March, 
1805, the latter country was denominated the Territory of Lou- 
isiana. In 1812, this territory was constituted a territorial go- 
vernment,' by the name of the Territory of Missouri. In March, 
I8l9j the inhabitants of the northern parts were formed into a 
distinct district, by the name of Missouri, and soon after the 
southern was formed into a territorial government by the name 
of Arkansas. In December, 1819, an election for a delegate to 
congress was held for the first time. 

Section \IY, During the following summer, 
1819, the president visited the southern section 
of the country, having in view the same great 
national interests, which had prompted him in 
his previous tour to the north. 

In this tour the president visited Charleston, Savannah, and 
Augusta; from this latter place he proceeded to Nashville, 
ihrouprh ;he Cherokee nation, and thence to Louisville andLex- 
iiigion, Kentucky, whence he returned to the seat of government, 
edrly in August. 

Section ^V, On the 14th of December fol 



376 PERIOD Xi....l8l7....1822. ^ 

lowing, a resolution passed congress admitting 
Alabama into the union, on an equal footing 
with the original states. 

Alabama, though recently settled, appears to have been visit- 
ed by Ferdinand de Soto, in 1539. Some scattered settlements 
were made within the present state of Mississippi before the 
American revolution, but Alabama continued the hunting ground 
of savages, until a much later period. 

After the peace of 1783, Georgia laid claim to this territory, 
and exercised jurisdiction over it, until the beginning of the pre- 
sent century. In 1795, an act passed the legislature of Georgia, 
by which twenty-five millions of acres, of its western territory^ 
were sold to companies for five hundred thousand dollars, and 
the purchase money was paid into their treasury. The purchas- 
ers of these lands soon after sold tht^ii at advanced prices. The 
sale of the territory excited a warm opposition in Georgia, and at 
a subsequent meeting of the legislature, the transaction was im- 
peached, on the ground of bribery, corruption, and unconstitu- 
tionality. The records respecting the sale were ordered to be 
burnt, and the five hundred thousand dollars to be refunded to 
the purchasers. Those who had acquired titles of the original 
purchasers instituted suits in the federal courts. 

In 1802, however, Georgia ceded to the United States all her 
western territory, for one million, two hundred and fifty thousand 
dollars. On this event, the purchasers of the Yazoo land peti- 
tioned congress for redress and compensation. After consider- 
able opposition, an act passed for reimbursing them With funded 
stock, called the Mississippi stock. In 1 800, the territory which 
now forms the states of Mississippi and Alabama, was erected 
into a territorial government. In 1817, Mississippi territory 
was divided and the western portion of it was authorized to form 
a state constitution. The eastern portion w is then formed into 
a territorial government and received the n^me of Alabamac. In 
July, 1819, a convention of delegates met at Huntsville.and adopt- 
ed a state constitution, which being approved by congress in De- 
cember following, the state was declared to be henceforth one of 
rhe United States. 

Sectio7i*XYl. In the ensuing year, March 3d 
1820, Maine became an independant state, and 
a member of the federal union. 

The separation of the District of Maine from Massachusetts, 
und its erection into an independent stale, had boen frequently 
attempted without succe^. In October, 1/85, " convention met 
at Portland, for the purpose of considering this subject. In the 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 377 

succeeding year, the question was submitted to the people of 
Maine, to be decided in town meetings, when it was found that 
a majority of freemen were against the measure. The subject 
was renewed in 1802, when a majority appeared averse to a 
separation. In 1819, an act passed the general court of Mas- 
sachusetts, for ascertaining the wishes of the people ; in confoim- 
ity to which, a vote was taken in all the towns. A large ma- 
jority were found in favour of a separation. A convention was 
called, and a constitution adopted, which being approved, Mas- 
sachusetts and Maine amicably separated, the latter taking her 
proper rank, as one of the United States. 

Section XVII. On the 3d of March, 1821, the 
i6th congress closed its second session. Few 
subjects of importance were discussed, and but 
little done for the advancement of publick inter- 
est, or the promotion of private prosperity. 
Acts were passed to admit Missouri into the uni- 
on conditionally ; to reduce the military peace 
establishment to four regiments of artillery, and 
seven regiments of infantry, with their proper 
officers ; and to carry into further execution the 
provisions of treaties with Spain and Great Bri- 
tain. 

Section XVIII. On the 5th, Mr. Monroe, who 
had been re-elected to the presidency, took the 
usual oath of office. The re-election of Monroe 
was nearly unanimous. Mr. Tompkins was 
again elected vice-president. 

Section XIX. August 10th, 1821, the presi- 
dent, by his proclamation, declared Missouri to 
be an independent state, and that it was admit- 
ted into the federal union. 

The first permanent settlements, in Missouri, appear to have 
been made at St. Genevieve and New-Bourbon, which were 
founded soon after the peace of 1663. In the succeeding year, 
St. Louis, the capital of the state, was commenced. In 1762, 
Louisiana, and Missouri of course, were secretly ceded by France 
to Spain ; but the latter did not attempt to take possession ot 
the country until some years after. 

Missouri remained in possession of Spain, through the war of 

32* 



3^8 PERIOD XI....1817....1822. 

the revolution, until the cession of Louisiana to France, in 1801, 
by which latter power it was ceded to the United States, in 
1803. 

Upon the cession of Louisiana to the United States, the dis- 
trict, which now forms the state of Louisiana^ was separated 
from the territory, and made a distinct government, by the name 
of the territory of Orleans. In 1811, the terrhory of Orleans 
became a state, by the name of Louisiana, The remaining 
part of the original province of Louisiana, extending to the Pa- 
cifick, was erected into a territorial government, and called Mis- 
sou?'i. In 1318-19, application was made to congress by the 
people of tliis teriitory, to form a state constitution. A bill was 
accordingly introduced, for the purpose, a provision of which 
forbade slavery or involuntary servitude. The bill with this 
provision passed the house of representatives, but was rejected 
in the senate, and, in consequence of this disagreement, the mea- 
sure, for the time, failed. In the session of 1819-20, the bill 
was revived ; and, after long and animated debates, a compro- 
mise was effected, by which slavery was to be tolerated in Mis- 
souri, and forbidden in all that part of Louisiana, as ceded by 
France, lying north of 36*^ 30' north lathude, except so much 
as was included within the limits of the state. In the mean time 
the people of Missouri liad formed a state constitution. When 
this constitution was presented to congress, in 1820-21, a pro- 
vision in it, which required the legislature to pass laws '" to pre- 
vent free negroes and mullattoes from coming to, and settling in 
rtie state," was strenuously opposed, on the ground that it violat- 
ed the rights of such persons of that description, as were citizens 
of any of the United States. The contest occupied a great part 
of the session, and it was finally determined, by a small majority, 
that Missouri should be admitted, upon the fundamental condi- 
tion, that the contested clause should not be construed to autho- 
rize the passage of any laws, excluding citizens of other states 
from enjoying the privileges to whicn they are entitled, by the 
constitution of the Unhed States. It was also provided, that if 
the legislature of Missouri should, by a solemn publick act, pre- 
viously to the 4th P^onday of November, 1821, declare the as- 
sent of the state to this fundaiaiental condition, the president 
should issue his proclamation, declaring the admission complete. 
On the 24th of .Tune, 1821, the legislature of Missouri assented 
to the fundamental condition ; and, on the 10th of August fol- 
lowing, the president's proclamation was issued, declaring the 
admission complete.* • 



♦ Americar) Atlas — Philadelphia. 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 379 

Section XX. The first session of the seven- 
teenth congress commenced on the 3d of De- 
cember. The affairs of the nation were generally 
prosperous, and there seemed to be no obstacle 
in the way of wise and prudent m^easures. A 
spirit of jealously, however, obtruded itself upon 
their deliberations, by which some beneficial 
measures were defeated, and the business of the 
session was unnecessarily delayed and neglected. 
Several acts of importance, however, were pass- 
ed, concerning navigation and commerce ; — 
relievinsr still further tiie indis^ent veterans of the 
revolution ; — and fixing the ratio, between popu- 
lation and representation, at one representative 
for every forty thousand inhabitants. 

The constitution has not limited the number, but has Only 
provided that no more than one shall be sent for thirty thousand 
inhabitants. Publick opinion seems generally to have decided 
that a numerous representation is an evil, by which not only the 
business of the nation is neglected, in the conflicts of individual 
opinions, but the people are subjected to an unnecessary ex- 
pense. The congress that signed the Declaration of Indepen- 
dence consisted but of fifty-six members ; and no diliberative 
assembly excelled them, in industry and publick virtue. 
The congress that formed the confederation consisted 
of forty-eight ; that which formed the constitution consisted of 
only thiity-nine, and the first congress under that constitution, 
of but 'sixty-five. After the first census, the appointment being 
one for every thirty-three thousand inhabitants, the house con- 
sisted of one hundred and five representatives. The same ap- 
portionment being continued under the second census, there 
were one hundred and forty-one representatives. — The appor- 
tionment, under the third census, allowed one for thirty-five 
thousand ; and the house consisted of one hundred and eighty- 
seven members. The ratio fixed upon, bj/ the present congress, 
is one for forty thousand ; and the number of representatives is 
two hundred and twelve. 

Section XXI. During the above session of 
congress, March 31, 1822, a territorial govern- 
ment was established for Florida. 

The name of Florida was formerly given to an immense re- 



380 PERIOD XI....1817....1822. 

gion of country, discovered by Cabot, in 1497. The first visit- 
ant to the actual territory of Florida was Ponce de Leon, who 
landed on Easter day, 1512. Navigators, from several coui^- 
tries, visited it, and various European sovereigns attempted to 
appropriate the country to themselves. 

Spain, h<)wever, held possession of it until 1763, when it was 
ceded to Great Britain. In May, 1781, Don Galvez captured 
Pensacola, and, soon afterwards, completed the conquest of the 
whole of West Florida, which remained in possession of Spain, 
until 1783, when Great Britain relinquished both provinces of 
Florida to Spain. 

By the treaty of France, in 1803, which ceded Louisiana to 
the United States, it was declared to be ceded, Avith the same 
extent that it had in the hands of Spain, when ceded to France. 
By virtue of this declaration, the United States claimed the 
country west of the Perdido river, and, in 1811, took possession 
of it, except the town and fort of Mobile, which were surrender- 
ed the following year. In 1814, a British expedition having 
been fitted out against tlie United States, from Pensacola, Gene- 
ral Jackson took possession of the town ; but, having no au- 
thority to hold it, returned to Mobile. The Seminole Indians, 
with whom the United States were at war, residing partly within 
the limits of Florida, and making their incursions thence with- 
out restraint from the Spaniards, it became necessary to cross 
the territorial line, to chastise them. Subsequently, General 
Jackson took, possession of Fort St. Marks and Pensacola, 
which the American troops held till November, 1818, when 
they were restored to Spain. In 1819, a transfer of the whole 
province was made, by treaty, to the United States, and, after 
many vexatious delays, the treaty was ratified, by Spain, in 
October 1820, and, finally, by the United States, in the month 
of February, 1821. Possession v/as delivered to General Jack- 
son, as commissioner of the United States, in July, 1821. 

Section XXIL The second session of the 
seventeenth congress commenced at Washing- 
ton, on the 2d of December. In his message, 
at the opening of the session, the president in- 
formed congress that, in Jane, a convention of 
navigation and commerce, resting essentially on 
a basis of reciprocal and equal advantage to the 
two countries, had been concluded between 
France and the United States ;— that the prohi- 
bition, which had been imposed on the commerce, 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 381 

between the United States and the British colo- 
nies, in the West Indies and on this continent, 
had been removed, and that the ports of those 
colonies had been opened to the vessels of the 
United States, by an act of the British parlia- 
ment. 

In a second message, a few days subsequent- 
ly, the president introduced to the notice of con- 
gress the interesting subject of the " multiplied 
outrages and depredations, recently committed 
on our seamen and commerce, by Pirates^ in the 
West Indies and Gulf of Mexico," and recom- 
mended the immediate organization of an effi- 
cient force to suppress them. A bill was ac- 
cordingly introduced, authorizing the president 
to provide such a force, and to despatch it im- 
mediately to the protection of our persecuted 
seamen. 

The president had mentioned the subject of piracy, in his 
first message ; but he was prompted early after to make it tlie 
subject of a special communication, in consequence of intelli- 
gence that captain Allen, of the Alligator, a brave and merito- 
rious officer, had fallen in the neighbourhood of Matanzas, by 
the hands of these ruthless barbarians, while attempting, in dis- 
charge of his duty, to rescue an iwprotected merchant ship, which 
had fallen into their power. Immediately after the passage of 
the above bill, Commodore Porter was appointed to this service, 
and, soon after, hoisting his broad pendant on board the Pea- 
cock, stretched his way, with a respectable force, to chastise 
these miscreants, that regard no law, and that feel no mercy. 

EMBRACING A SKETCH OF THE PRESENT CONDI- 
TION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 

Section XXIII. JWaWietrS* Two centu- 
ries have elapsed, since the first settlements 
were commenced in the United States, by Eu- 



S82 PERIOD XI....1817....1822. 

ropeans, yet the people have not acquired that 
uniform character, which belongs to ancient na- 
tions, upon whom time, and the stability of in- 
stitutions have imprinted a particular and indi- 
vidual character. Although partial changes have 
occurred, which have been noticed in the pro- 
gress of this work, yet so far down as the pre- 
sent time, the essential variations, which have 
taken place, are few. The general physiogno- 
my is nearly as varied as the origin of the popu- 
lation is different. English, Irish, German, 
Scotch, French, and Swiss, all retain something 
of the first stamp, which belongs to their ancient 
country. The original roughness and severity 
of the first settlers are, indeed, lost, and a de- 
gree of softness and pliancy, more congenial 
with an improved state of society, has general- 
ly obtained. 

A marked distinction undoubtedly exists between the inhabit- 
ants of the commercial and maritime towns, and the villages of 
the country. The former in a more considerable degree, as to 
luxury and vice, resemble the great towns of Europe. Those 
of the country, who lead an agricultural life, preserve much of the 
simplicity, with something of the roughness of former days; 
but they enjoy all that happiness which proceeds from the ex- 
cercise of the social virtues, in their primitive purity. Their af- 
fections are constant ; felicity crowns the conjugal union; pa- 
rental authority is sacred ; infidelity on the part of the wife is 
almost unknown ; crime is rare, mendicit)'^ and theft uncommon. 

The people generally are enterprising, industrious, persevering, 
and submissive to government. They are also intelligent, 
brave, active, and benevolent, and possess a strength and agility 
of body, which are seldom united in so great a degree. With 
somewhat of the appearance of apathy, and under a sober exteri- 
or, strong feelings and a capacity for the most lively sallies are 
concealed. As the benefits of education are extensively diffused, 
the ingenuity and intelligence of the people have been displayed 
to advantage, if not in the higher walks of literature, yet in the 
useful branches of knowledpe, and in the arts which multiply 
the comforts of life. 

From the perfect freedom and equality which are possessed^ 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 383 

but the barrier created by education will, it is hoped, keep in 
check the unwelcome tide. In the amusements of the people, 
there are evidently some changes for the better, indicating more 
correct ideas both of humanity and taste. Upon the whole, the 
manners of the people of the United States, especially aniong 
the more cultivated classes, are, probably, a medium, between 
an honest bluntness, on the one hand, and a sickly delicacy, on 
the other, or between a low and the highest degree of refinement. 
The. latter, indeed, is not to be expected in a country where there 
is no court, and no hereditary nobility, whose leisure and incli^ 
nation might lead them to substitute the affected and burdensome 
poHteness of courtiers, for the present manly ease of freemen. 

Section XXIV. iiellfl(GU* The principal 
religious denominations, at present, in the Unit- 
ed States, are Presbyterians, and Congregation- 
alists, Baptists, Friends, Episcopalians, and 
Methodists. The two first of these, unitedly, 
have more than iwenty-five hundred congrega- 
tions ; the number of Baptist congregations ex- 
ceeds two thousand ; the Friends have five hun- 
dred, and the Episcopalians about three hun- 
dred. The Methodists also are numerous. 

For the effectual employment of those who wish to be en- 
gaged in the cinistian ministry and in missions, peculiar facili- 
ties have been devised ; and the plans of benevolence, mention- 
ed under the last period, have been continued and greatly aug- 
mented. The American Board of Commissioners for foreign 
Missions, the American Bible Society, the American Education 
Society, together with a Society for the colonization of free blacks 
in Africa, have risen in respectability and resources. Missionaries 
in considerable numbers are sent, not only into vacant and desti- 
tute parts of our own country, to the South and West, and among 
the Indians ; but also to Southern Asia, to Palestine, and to the 
Islands of the Pacifick Ocean. 

It is not to be disguised that much irreligion and vice, and 
some opposition to the above named objects prevails, and that 
a spirit of infidelity exists, though in a form more concealed 
than formerly, and under more decent names. Nor does it be- 
come us to deny, that in a time of so much religious action and 
religious news, by which attention is occupied, there is danger 
of a superficial acquaintance with the doctrines of the Bible, 
among the mass of professors. Yet, whatever may be the dan- 
ger from this source, we are persuaded that such exertions,. 



384 PERIOD XI....1S17....1822. 

and the interest taken in political discussions, a tendency to 
dissoluteness in our manners is undoubtedly to be perceived ; 
since they are altogether congenial with the precepts of the 
gospel, will in the end produce a vastly counterbalancing good. 
The exigencies of the church, and of the times, require precisely 
such a spirit of benevolent enterprise, to be increased, we trust 
with the growth of the nation. 

The attention, which is now paid to biblical learning, and to a 
more systematick instruction in theology, by those who are to be- 
come Chrisiian teachers, forms an era in the history of religion, 
in this country. This will be a means, in due time, of counter- 
acting that tendency to religious dissipation, and to a superficial 
doctrinal knowledge, among professing christians, which have 
been mentioned. Indeed, the good consequences of such pre- 
paratory studies begin to be felt in other respects, at least ; and 
the call for a learned and efficient, as well as a pious ministry is 
doubly increasing. Morality, which is a component part of re- 
ligion, has taken deep root, and the increased means of christian 
instruction just noticed, and forms a striking contrast to the ef- 
fects, which proceed from a dearth of the spirit and of the word 
of God, in less favoured parts of the country. It is worthy of 
notice, also, that some vigorous attempts have been made, by 
means of the association of individuals, in various places, to pre- 
vent the progress of vice, and, of course, to promote the interests 
of christian virtue. Intemperance, which is the most alaiming 
symptom of the times, has, by this means, received a partial, 
though, it must be confessed, inadequate restraint. 

Section XXV. rtatte anir ©ontmem* 

The commerce of the United States consists, 
principally, in the exchange of agricultural pro- 
duce for the manufactures of other parts of the 
world, and the productions of the tropical cli- 
mates. The principal articles of domestic pro- 
duce, exported, are cotton, wheat flour, biscuit, 
tobacco, lumber, rice, pot and pearl ashes, In- 
dian corn, and meal, dried and pickled fish, beef, 

rye, pork, &c. 

Of these, cotton* is the most considerable article, and has in- 



* The greater attention to the cultivation of cotton is to be ascribed to the 
invention of a machine for cleaning upland cotton, from its seeds. For 
this machine -w^e a?'e indebted to Mr Whitney, of New Haven, Connee* 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 385 

creased, regularly, from one hundred thousand pounds, the 
amount exported in 1790, to more thfm eighty-five millions of 
pounds, exported in 1817. It now constitutes one third of the 
whole value of our exports, or about twenty millions of dollars. 
Next to cotton, wheat, flour, and biscuit, are exported in the 
greatest quantities. — Tobacco ?nd rice are on the decline, the 
attention of planters being directed to the more profitable culti- 
vation of cotton. 

Of these exports, New-England and New- York are the great 
carriers. To them belong nearly two thirds of all the shipping 
of the United States. The states south of the Potomac own 
©niy one eighth part. Our staple articles are principally the 
growth of the southern states, and are carried coast wis.?, from 
the southern to the middle states, whence they are sent to fo- 
reign countries, almost entirely, in ships owned by northern 
merchants, and navigaf^d by northern seamen. In 1 8i;0, there 
were about seventy thousand persons, in tlic Unif'^d Stares, en- 
gaged in commerce, of which thirieen thousand, or nf arly one 
sixth, belonged to Massachusetts alone. Nearly half of the 
whole number belonged to the New-England Stares, and New- 
York. 

The exports from the United Str^tes are sent to various coun- 
tries, but the British domiaions alwavs receive the largest por- 
tion of our domestick produce, pan iculaily cotton. tIic Spa- 
nish, Porttiiruese, and French dominions have usually received 
the most, next to the British. Dining the period in which the 
United States enjoyed the carrying trade, thiU is from 1796 to 
1807, when the wars, which j-Jicceeded the French »e\'oluiion, 
existed, and daring which the Uiatv-d States was the principal 
neutral power, the nations for which she carried e/nbractd near- 
ly all Europe ; but those for whir h she carried the tnost were 
the Dutch, French, end Spaniards. Since the return of peace, 
in 1815, the nations of Europe have been chiefly their own car- 
riers. Of course, the fo; eign produce, exported from this coun- 
try, has been small, compared with its amount from 1S02 to 
1812. In the year endino- the 30th of September 1822, ihe to- 
tal value of exports from the United States was seventy-two mil- 



ticut. Before the invention of this machine, it was so difficult to cleanse 
cotton, thatthe cultivation of it was extremely limited, ftis aowcvl+'vatf-d 
to great extent, in the states south of Virginia, and Ke ntucky. The wheat 
and flour exported are raised, principally, in the middle and western states ; 
tobacco m ^ (aryland, Virginia, and North Cai-olina ;. lur.her is chiefly from 
the forests of Maine, New Hampshire, and the low countries of th,* Oaiv- 
olmaa and Georgia. Rice is mostly raised in the Caroiinait. Georgia, and 
Louuytana, fee. i » 

33 



886 PERIOD XL...1817....1832. 

lions, one hundred and sixty ihonsand, two hundred and eighty- 
one dollars. Of this sum, but about twenty-two millions were 
foreign exports, leaving nearly tilty millions for domestick ex- 
ports. Almost half of the domestick exports were sent to Eng- 
land, Scotland, and Ireland. During the same year, the total 
value of imports was eighty-three millions, two hundred and for- 
ty-one thousand, dve hundred and foriy-one dollars, of which 
thirty-two millions were from H-ngland alone. 

The goods received, in return for exports, are, generally, 
the manufactures of those countries to which the exports are 
carried. From Great Britain are imported vast quantities of 
woollen and cotton goods, and manufactures of iron, steel, brass, 
copper, glass, earthen ware, silk, &c. From China we receive 
tea and silk ; from Russia iron and hemp. Coffee comes from 
the colonies of the European powers in America, and the East 
Indies; sugar from the East and West Indies; rum from the 
British and Danish West Indies. Wines are, principally, from 
France, Spain, Portugal, Madeira, and the Canary isles, bran- 
dy from France, Spain, Italy, &c. Notwithstanding the large 
amount of cotton, tobacco, lumber, &c. sent to Great Britain, 
yet the balance with that country is, and always has been against 
us. It is also against us in respect to China, Russia, Sweden, 
Denmark, and I ranee, because these countries, from which we 
import largely, have occasion lor very little of our surplus pro- 
duce. 

As to the tonnage of the UnHed States, it may be observed, 
that it annually increased from 1790, at which time it was near- 
ly half a million, to the year 1810, when it arrived at its maxi- 
mum, and amounted to more than one million and four hundred 
thousand tons ; an amount far greater than that of any other 
nation in the world, except Great Britain. In 1819, the ton- 
nage employed in the coasting trade amounted to nearly six 
hundred thousand tons, having increased in thirty years more 
than five fold. 

The tonnage employed in the fisheries has not progressed, 
with the same rapidity. During the revolutionary war, the 
fisheries were destroyed, and, for many years afterwards they 
did not regain their original importance. To encourage them, 
congress, in 1792, granted a bounty to the owners and seamen 
employed in the bank, or cod fisheries, and, in 1814, this bounty 
was considerably increased. During the late war, our fisher- 
men suffered heavy losses, but, since the return of peace, they 
have resumed their occupations, and the fisheries are now in a 
more flourishing state than they have been at any period since 
the declaration of our independence. In 1818, there belonged 
tt» New Bedford and Nantucket seventy-two vessels, engaged in 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 387 

ihe whale fishery, whose aggregate tonnage was about seventeen 
thousand tons. This number has since increased. Massachu- 
setts is the principal state concerned in this fishery. No state 
south of New- York ever owned a single vessel employed in the 
whale fishery. 

Nearly connected with commerce is the revenue of the coun- 
try. This has almost entirely arisen, ever since the establish- 
ment of the present governmentj from duties paid on tonnage, 
and on foreign goods i;uported into the United States. Internal 
duties and direct taxes have, occasionally, been resorted to, as 
was the case during the administration of Mr. Adams, and du- 
ring the late war, but upon these, the government ordinarily 
place no dependence. Several millions of dollars are annually 
received from the sale of publick lands, and the sum is yearly 
increasing. In 1815, the revenue was much greater than it had 
been at any former period, owing to the immense importations 
©f foreign goods into the country. It continued to decrease, 
however, until 1821, since which time it has been again slowly 
rising. It may now be estimated in ordinary years, at about 
twenty millions of dollars. 

It will not be foreign to this article to add as few remark 
upon the publick debt. This debt was contracted in sup- 
port of the war of independence. In 1791, it amounted to 
about seventy-five millions of dollars. From this date to the 
year 1812, owing to the great prosperity of the country, the 
debt was gradually diminished to about one half. But, on the 
recurrence of war, it again increased, and, in 1 8l6, amounted to 
one hundred and twenty-three millions. It has been since di- 
minishing, and, on the first of January, 1823, was about Hinety 
millions of dollars. 

Section XXVI. iliritttlttttt* Until within 
a few years, agriculture, as a science, received 
but little attention, in the United States. Few, 
if any, valuable improvements were attempted. 
Indifference and uncommon apathy seem to have 
pervaded society. A new era, however, has re- 
cently commenced, and agriculture, both as a 
science and an art, is receiving much of that 
attention which its acknowledged importance 
demands. It is beginning to be regarded, as it 
should be, not only as the basis of subisiistence 



388 PERIOD XI....1817... 1822. 

and population, but as the parent of individual 
and national opulence. 

Men oi enlightened minds, and of distinguish- 
ed \\ealth, are, in many parts of the country, 
devoting themselves to the study of the art, and 
to new and useful experiments. Agricultural 
soc ;ties abound ; at the head of which may be 
seen j^ome of the most scieutifick and practical 
meu, combining their powers in favour of agri- 
cuUu '^, hr the collection and diffusion of in- 
formation, and for the excitement of industry 
and emulation. The exhibitions which annu- 
ally take place, in almost every county, of cattle, 
and of the productions of the soil, the learned 
and often eloquent addresses, which these exhi- 
bitions call forth, have a strong tendency to 
awaken the attention of our countrymen to a 
pursuit more favourable to health, virtue, and 
peace, than any other. 

The proportioii of the inhabitants of the United States, devote 
ed to agricullural pursuiti;, is large. By the census of 1820, it 
appears, that this proportion is more than one fifth of the whole 
population, or two millions. This number includes only those 
who are thus engvged by actual occupation, children and females 
generally being excluded. It embraces, therefore, about two 
thirds of ail the males over ten years of age. The slave holding 
states are the most agricultural, the proportion being usually 
from one quarter to one third of the whole population, while in 
the other states it generally falls below one fifth. 

Of the several states, iNew-York has the greatest number en- 
gaged in agriculture ; Virginia next ; and next to those states, 
North Carolina, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Ohio, 
Tennessee, and Georgia, in order. But the proportion of those 
devoted to agriculture, in the respective states, to their popula- 
tion, is different. Louisiana has the greatest proportion, or about 
thi.ty five per cent.; South Carolina has thirty-two ; Georgia 
and Mississippi, each twenty-nine ; North Carolina twenty-se- 
ven •, while New-York has but eighteen, and Pennsylvania but 
thirteen per cent. No state in the union has so small a propor- 
tion as Massachusetts 



MONROE'S ADMrNISTRATION. 38y 

Section xxvii. uvtu atil? |«lanncac= 

tt '^. The Dianufhcturing esta..>iishments in 
the IJ ailed States are con«iderably various and 
namerous ; and though less« prosperous than 
during the late war, are gradually rising from 
the depression which they experienced immedi- 
ately after the return of peace, in consequence 
of the excessive importations of foreign goods, 
which were then made. 

By the friends of these establishments vigorous efforts are 
makino; to induce congress to increase the duties on certain ar- 
ticles, now extensively imported, with reference to their being 
manufactured at home, and thereby giving more encourageujent 
to those of our citizens who have invested their capital in esta- 
blishments of this kind. A stroijg opposition, however, to an 
increase of the duties on foreign goods has appeared, particular- 
ly in the south, o'l the ground that to foster manufacturing esta- 
blishments, considerably beyond the encouragement given them 
by the existing tariff, must be at the exp^inse of commerce, reve- 
nue, and general prosper ity. What will be the issue of the above 
efforts, time only will disclose. 

The number of persons employed in manufactures in the 
United States, as appears by the census of 1820, is three hun- 
dred and foity-ninc thousand, two hundred and forty-seven. 
Rhode-Island has a greater proportion of population engaged m 
manufactures ihcir I any other state, and next in order are Massachu- 
setts and Connect cut. Pennsylvania and New-Jersey, also, rank 
high as manufacturing states. 

Section XKVni. |i0.^||lEtfOII* The popu- 
lation of the United States in 1820, was nine 
millions, six hundred and thirty-seven thousand, 
nine hundred and ninety-nine ; of whom one 
million, five hundred and thirty-one thousand, 
four hundred and thirty-six were slaves, and two 
hundred and thirty three thousand, three hun 
dred and ninety-eigjit were ft^ee blacks. 

The nu'iiher of foreigners who arrive in the country is, upon 
an average, about (ive or six thousand annually. About this 
number, however is supposed to emigrate to the British provin- 
ces. The natural iacn>ase of th*' population is estimated at 
about three hundred thousand. The population of the United 

53* 



390 PERIOD XI....1817....1822. 

States may now, therefore, (close of the year 1822,) be coll^.- 
deied as exceeding ten millions. 

The following observations, respecting the population of the 
country, have been found to be true by a late respectable writer.* 
1. That the inhabitants of the United States double in about 
twenty-five years. 2. That taking the whole United States to- 
gether, the whites increase faster than the blacks ; but that in 
the states in which the blacks are very numerous, they have al- 
most uniformly increased faster than the whites, in thos<J states. 
In Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Geor- 
gia, Tennessee, and Kentucky, the blacks, for the last thirty 
years, have increased much faster than the whites. In North 
Carolina and Tennessee, they have increased more than as fast 
again, and in South Carolina, during the last ten years, they have 
increased three tinjes as fast. In the northern states, on the 
contrary, the black population is almost stationary, and in Maine, 
New-Hampshire, and Rhode-Island, it is diminishing. 3. That 
in all our great cities the females are more numerous than the 
males, while in the whole United States the reverse is true. 
The average of all the cities gives nearly one hundred and nine fe- 
males to one hundred males, whereas, in the whole United 
States, the average of females is but ninety-seven t j one hundred 
males. 

Section XXIX. iSSlliratt^ll* The education 
of youth, which is so essential to the well being* 
of society, and intimately connected with the 
political prosperity of a republican govern- 
ment, has received, as has been noticed in 
the progress of this work, considerable atten- 
tion in the United States, in every period since 
their settlement. The present state of our pri- 
mary and higher schools, of our colleges, univer- 
sities, and other establishments of education, is 
more flourishing than at any former period ; their 
nu ::ber is annually increasing, and a more liberal 
spirit, in respect to their endowment, is pre- 
vailing. 

In all the New-Endand States, excepting Rhode-Island, corai- 
jMon schools are supported by law. In this latter state, how- 



* S. E. Morse, who has recently published a valuable Geography, tc» 
which the anthor is indebted for many important facts ia tliese notes. 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 391 

ever, academies are established in all the principal towns, and 
private schools are extensively maintained, during the winter 
months. In the new state of Maine, a sum, exceeding one hun- 
dred thousand dollars, is raised by tax, and appropriated to the 
support of a school master for every two hundred inhabitants. 
The number of school houses is estimated at fifieen hundred. 

In Connecticut the common schools are supported by a fund, 
arising from the sale of lands in Ohio, which formerly belonged 
to the state. This fund amounted in iMay 1821, to one million 
and seven hnndred thousand dollars, the j^early income of which, 
together with twelve thousand dollars of the pubiick taxes, is 
annually devoted to the maintenance of common schi ol masters, 
in every town in the state. The amount i)aid to the i 'wns from 
this fund, in 1818, was more than seventy thousand dollars, a 
greater sum by twenty-two thousand doRars than the whole state 
tax amounted to in the year preceding. 

A common school fund exists, also, in the state of New- York. 
In 1822, it consisted of more than one million one hundred 
thousand dollars, and twenty-five thousand acres of land. The 
sum, which this fund annually yields, is nearly eighty thousand 
dollars, and it assists to give instruction to nine tenths of the 
«hildren of that populous state, between the ages of five and fif- 
teen \'ears. Besides the common schools and colleges, there are 
nearly fifty incorporated academies. There is also a literary 
fund of nearly one hundred thousand dollars, the interest of 
which is annually distributed to the several colleges and acade- 
mies of the state. 

In Virginia, a literary fund has recently been created by the 
legislature, consisting of monies received flrom the United States, 
for mihtary services during the late war. It amounted, in De- 
cember, 1818, to about one million and one hundred thousand 
dollars, to which is yet to be added a balance, due from the 
United States. The interest of this sum, with the addition of 
fines, forfeitures, &c. which have also been appropriated to the 
same object, will, in the opinion of the Directors, yield an an- 
nual income of nearly ninety thousand dollars. Of this sum 
forty-five thousand dollars annually have been appropriated to 
the support of primary schools, and fifteen thousand dollars to 
the endowment of a university. 

Until witliin a (ew years, the subject of education has receiv- 
ed but little attention in North Carolina. Much zeal, however, 
has recently been displayed in the establishment of acad<^mies 
and schools. Previously to 1 804, there were but two academies 
in the state ; there are now fifty, and the number is still increas- 
ing. 

In South Carolina, academies are numerous ; the legislaKve 



392 PERIOD XI....1817....1822. 

annually appropriates thirty thousand dollars for the support of 
free schools. In ISIJ, the slate cf Georgia gave o.ie huncltcd 
thousand dollars icAc the same object. In the states ot Alabcuna, 
Ohio, and iUinois, provision has been made, by the United 
States, for the education of youth, one section, or a thirty-sixth 
part of every township, being granted by the act of congress 
that admitted these siat<'s to the union, for the support of com- 
mon schools, and in addition cue, and in some states, iwv town- 
ships for the support of a college. Till recently, education has 
been much neglected in Louisiana, and many of the inhabitajits 
are unable either to read or w:Jte. Lately, the attention of the 
govei nnif it has been directed to this subject, and schools and 
higher seminaries of learning are establishing in various parts of 
the state. 

Several universities and colleges have been added to the lite- 
rary institutions in the United States, whliin this period. Of 
universities, two have lecently commenced operations in the 
state of Ohio, one at Athens, on the Horkhocking, by the name 
of the Ohio University ; the other at Oxford, near the south west 
corner of the state, by the name of the Miami University. The 
former of these has two townships ot land, or forty-six thousand 
acres, and an annual income of two thousand three hundred 
dollars ; the latter has one township wiiich yields about two 
thousand dollars. 

Besides these, there is a flourishing college at Cincinnati, 
which was incorporated in 1819, and which has funds amount- 
ing to thirty thousand dollars. A medical college is connected 
with it. Worthington college was incorporated during the same 
year. In 1818, Transylvania university, in Lexington, Ken- 
tucky, was re-organized and placed upon a more liberal foun- 
dation. The number of students now exceeds three hundred. 
A rellcge was established, in 1819 at Danville, about thirty 
miles southwest from Lexington. 

A university has recently been commenced at Charlottesville, 
in Albemarle county, Virginia. The plan conteniplatesten profes- 
sorships ; and the buildings, consisting often pavillions for the 
prniessors, five hotels tor dieting the students, with one hundred 
and four dormitories sufficient for two hundred and eight students, 
are nlrendy finished, in an elegant style of architectur*. A 
college has recently gone into operation in the District of Co- 
hi'nbia. It is situated three miles from the capital. A Baptist 
Tli. ological seminary is to be connected with the institution. 
Besides these institutions, there are several others, via. a Charity 
school at Bangor, Maine, whose object is to prepare young men 
for the ministry, in a shorter time than is usual at other i^mina- 
rjes ; a Baptist literary and theological seminary at Watervill€,on 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 393 

the Kennebeck ; and one at New-York, belonging to the Protestant 
Episcopal Church. A Theological institution has also beeii es- 
tablished at Auburn, New- York, by the Presbyterians. Seve- 
ral others are in contemplation in the country. 

The foregoing facts, in relation to the state of our common 
and higher institutions of learning, no American, in whose bo- 
som glows the spirit of the patriot, will regard with indifference. 
Like the light of heas^cn, science cheers, beautifies, and adorns. 
To its influence are we indebted for miich oi the civil and reli- 
gious freedom which we enjoy, and intimately connected with 
its progress are the future honour and happiness of our country. 
An intelligent people will select intelligent rulers, and intelli- 
gent rulers will manage safely the government confided to theijr 
trust. " There is scarcely one instance brought" says Bacon^ 
" of a disastrous government, where learned men have been 
seated at the helm." 

The general diffusion of knowledge tends also to makepeace- 
able citizens. " It causes men," in the language of a periodical 
work of our own country, '^ to have just views of the nature, value, 
and relations of things, the purposes of life, the tendency of ac- 
tions, to be guided by purer motives, to form nobler resolutions, 
and to press forward to more desirable attainments. Know- 
ledge smooths down the roughness and tames the native ferocity 
of man." Our ancestors knew these things; they were aware 
of the importance of knowledge among the people to the strength 
of the social and political tabrick, which they were commencing ; 
tl.ey. therefore, whe^i they laid the foundations of their dwellings, 
almost simultaneously laid the foundations of our common ana 
higher seminaries of learning. 

A steady, though too slow an advance has been making in 
relation to science, through the whole period of our history. 
The importance of it is more generally admitted, and greater 
favour is shown towards those institutions which are devoted to 
its cultivation. Far distant be the day, when the prevalence of 
ignorance shall expose us to anarchy, and leave us to become 
the victims to some ambitious, turbulent, faithless spirit, who 
may rise to wield the sword of despotism. On the con- 
trary, may knowledge continue to increase, and with it that 
love of justice, virtue, and religion, which, under the blessing of 
heaven, will make our beloved country perpetually the seat af 
peace and freedom. 



3^4 FERIOD XI....lgl7....1B22. 



Mtntttionu. 

XXX. Upon concluding this history of our country, we can 
scarcely refrain from asking, who of our ancestors anticipated 
results from their toils, so stupendous as those which we behold ? 
Who of them predicted, while they were laying up the pines of 
the forest for a shelter, that they were commencing an empire, 
which, within two centuries, would extend thousands of miles, 
and embrace, within its bosom, ten millions of the human race ? 
Who then thought of cities, with their busy population, a thou- 
sand miles from the waters of the Atlantick ? — or of fleets, on 
inland seas, proceeding to, and returning trom distant voyages ? 
or of navies pouring forth their thunder and their flame ? Such 
results entered not into sober calculation, and were beyond even 
the dreams of fancy. Yet two centuries have brought them to 
pass. 

The branch which our fathers planted, under the fostering 
care of heaven, rose, extended, invigorated. It acquired stabili- 
ty by oppression, and gathered importance from the efforts 
which were made to crush it. In the progress of our history, 
we have seen the American people, while sustaining only the 
character of colonists, and struggling with the discouragements 
and difficulties of new settlements, maintaining at their own ex- 
pense, and bringing to prosperous conclusion, wars, which a sel- 
fish and jealous mother country, by her pride and imprudence, had 
occasioned. We have seen these colonies, amidst all the oppres- 
sions which they experienced, through exactions, and calumnies, 
loss of charters, and one abridgment of liberty after another, 
still maintaining their loyalty — still indulging the feelings, and 
adopting the language of affection, until justice and patriotism 
and religion bid them rise to assert those rights, which the God 
of nature designed for all his rational offspring. 

Through a long and trying war, in which inexperience had to 
contend with discipline, and poverty with wealth, we see them 
pledging their fortunes, liberties, and lives to one another, and, 
to the astonishment of the world, accomplishing their emancipa 
tion. And when emancipated, and transformed into an inde- 
pendent nation, we see them calmly betaking themselves to t^" 
organization of a government, under a constitution as wise a^ 
was singular, and whose excellency and competencv the expe- 
rience of more than thirty years has confirmed. — Simultaneous- 
ly with these events, what extensive conquests have been made 
on the wilderness ! Deserts have put on beauty and fruitfulnesSj 



MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 895 

and a way been constantly extending towards the waters of the 
Pacifick, for the advance of civilization and religion. 

Had we the spirit of prophecy, in respect to the future condi- 
tion of America, this would not be the place to indulge it. No 
nation, however, ever possessed, in a higher degree, the means of 
national prosperity. Our territory is ample — our soil fertile — 
our climate propitious — our citizens enterprising, brave, and per- 
severing. A sea coast of three thousand miles — inland seas, 
numerous canals, facilitiite foreign and domestick trade. Being 
free and independent of other nations, we can frame our laws, 
and fashion our institutions, as experience and an enlightened 
policy shall dictate. Our universities and colleges are yearly 
qualifying numbers for the higher professions of life, while our 
academies and schools are diffusing intelligence, to an unparal- 
leled extent, among our virtu9us yeomanry. The Bible and the 
institutions of Christianity are with us, and are presenting to us 
all the blessings which religion can impart. Thus circumstanc- 
ed, what should prevent our country from advancing to that emi- 
nence of national happiness, beyond which national happiness 
cannot extend? — "Manufactures may here rise — busy com- 
merce, inland and foreign, distribute our surplus produce, aug- 
ment our capital, give energy to industry, improvement to roads, 
patronage to arts and sciences, vigour to schools, and universali- 
ty to the institutions of religion ; reconciling civil liberty with 
efficient government ; extended population with concentrated 
action ; and unparalleled wealth with sobriety and morality." 

Let but the spirit, the practical wisdom, the religious integri- 
ty of the first planters of our soil, prevail among rulers and sub- 
jects — let God be acknowledged, by giving that place to his 
word and institutions which they claim — and all these blessings 
are ours. We shall enjoy peace with nations abroad, and tran- 
quillity at homei As years revolve, the tide of our national 
prosperity will flow broader and deeper. In the beautiful lan- 
guage of inspiration — " our sons will be as plants grown up in 
their youth, and our daughters as corner stones, polished after 
the similitude of a palace. Our garners will be full, including 
all manner of stores, our sheep will bring forth by thousands, 
and ten thousands ; our oxen will be strong to labour, and there 
will be no breaking in, or going out, or complaining in our streets. 
— Happy is that people that is in such a case, yea, happy is that 

ople whose God is the Lord." 



THE END 



INDEX. 

The figures denote the pages. 



Albany, settled, 29. 

Andross, Sir Edmund, arbitrary 

g-overnment of, 53, 61. 
Aborigines, see Indians. 
ALniculture, 68, 111, 145, 246, 

258, 285, 296, 312, 359, 387 



Burg-oyne, Gen. appointed to 
command the British in the 
North, 185 ; takes Ticondero- 
ga, 186 ; defeat, 188. 

Burr, Aaron, elected Vice Pre- 
sident, 295 ; conspiracy of 303. 



Arts and Manufactures, 68, 1 12, Belt, Little, attacks the President 



J 45, 246, 258, 285, 296, 312, 
359, 389 



frigate, 317. 
jBaltimore, attack upon, 344. 



Allen, Ethan, takes TiconderosBill, Compensation, 366 



ga, 163. 



Columbus, Voyag-e and discove- 



Armjs American, disbanded, 241.! ries of, 10 — 13 

Arnold, Col. difficult enterprise|Corapany, London and Plymouth 



of, 167; obtains command of 
West-point, 220 ; treachery of, 
222; escape of, 222; an attempt 
to take him, 223—228 ; depre- 
dations in Virginia, 229 ; inva- 
sion of Connecticut, &c. 239. 

Ackland. Lady Harriet, adven- 
tures of, 196—198. 

Andre. Maj. capture of, trial and 
death of, 221,222. 
Argus, captured, 333. 

Adams, John, elected Vice Pre- 
sident, 256 ; President, 283. 

Amelia Island, notice of, 365. 

Arkansas Territory, organised, 
375. 

Alabama, erected into a state, 376 

Boston settled, 35 ; Port Bill, 158. 

Bacon, rebellion of, 55. 

Braddock, defeat of, 123. 

Barrie, Col. speech of, 150. 

Battle, of Lexington, 162; of 
'bunker Hill, 164; of Long- 
island, 178 ; 9( Brandywine, 
183; of Germantown, 184; of 
Bennington, 187; of Saratoga, 
188; of Monmouth, 200; of 
Camden, 217; of the Cow- 
peus, 230 ; of Guilford Court- 
House. 231 ; of Camden, 230 : 
of Nuiety-six, 232 ; of the Eu- 



account of 21,22. 

Carver, John, first Governour of 
Plymouth, 30. 

Charlestown, settled, 35 ; burn- 
ed, 165. 

Connecticut, settled, 36 ; first 
constitution of, 41 ; incorpora- 
ted, 46. 

Carolina, settled, 46 ; dissensions 
in, 76 ; sufferings of in Queen 
Ann's war, 98 ; taken under 
royal protection, 100. 

Crown Point, expedition against, 
134. 

Canada, surrender of, to the Bri- 
tish, 143 ; invasion of, by the 
Americans; 336, 

Confederation, articles of, be- 
tween the states, 180. 

Credit, bills of, depreciation of, 

^ 207. 

Congress, Continental, convened, 
159 ; proceedings of, 160 ; 
meeting of, 165. 

Congress, Provincial, of Mass. 
proceedings of 160. 

Champe, sergeant, story of, 223— 
328. 

Clinton, Sir Henry, successful 
expedition of against Charles- 
ton, 208 ; superseded, 240. 



taw Sprmgs, 233 ; of York-'Cornwallis, defeat of, 237. 

iown, 237 ; near Chilicothe, Convention of delegates to re- 

268; of Miami, 270, 280; of vise the federal system, 252; 

iippacanoe, 319; of Queens- HarLford, 348. 

town, 325 ; of Kiver Raisin, 329; Constitution, Federal, presented 

S^A Kt^"' A f P'a^t^^»r8-> to .Congress, 253 ; epitome 6f, 
R.^nU W t T'^'^'^.^^'t^ ^^^- 283-286 ; ratification of, 25€ ; 

Bank National Establishment of, amendment of, 263 

267 ; renewal of, 356. riair, St. defeat of, 270. 

on-r ^ ' deprecation of, Caramelli, Hamet, account of, 

~'^'' 301. 

^4 



3«« 



INDEX. 



Clinton, George, elected Vice 

President, 311. 
Chesapeake frigate, attack upon, 

306 ; captured, 332. 
Discoveries, early ,by whom made 
10 ; of San Salvador, 10 ; of 
Newfoundland, St- Johns, Con- 
tinent of America, 13 ; of Cape 
(^'od, Nantucket, &c. 13. 
Delaware, Lord, appointed gov- 
ernour of Jamestown, 28. 
Delaware settled, 45. 
Dustan, Mrs. story of, 90. 
Dunmore, Lord, censurable con- 
duct of, 169. 
Danbury burnt,, 182. 
De Reidesel, baroness of, adven 

turesof, 189—196 
De Estaing, count, arrival of, 

with a French fleet, 200. 
Debt, U. States, at the close of 

the war, 249. 
Decatur, heroic conduct of, at 

Tripoli, 300. 
Decree, Berlin, 305 ; Milan, 309 : 

Rambouillet, 316 ; repeal of. 

317. 
Detroit, fort, surrender of, 324 ; 

retaken, 336. 
Education, 71, 113, 145,247,250, 

286,296, 313,300,390. ^ 
Eaton, Gen. enterprise of, 301 
Embargo laid, 309 ; re 

315; renewed, 321. 
England, war with, 321. 
Essex frigate, captured, 338. 
Fort WilUam Henry, brave de 

fence of, 129. 
Fort Washington, capture of,179 
France, revolution in, noticed 

274 ; prospect of war with, 29 i 
Florida, East and West, cessior. 

of, 374 ; territorial governmeni 

formed for, 379. 
Gorges, Sir Ferdinando, grant to 

him, 31. 
Georgia settled, 102; charter of. 

surrendered, 104 ; falls into the 

power of the British, 201. 
Gates,takes the army under Bur 

goyne, 188 ; appointed to th^ 

southern command,^ 17; defeat 

ed at Camden, 217 ; superse- 
ded, 229. 
Greene, Gen. appointment of, t-. 

the southern department, 2^9. 
Government, seat of, fixed ai 



Washington, 265 ; removed, 

293. 
Genet, M., censurable conduct 

of, 276. 
History, uses of, 5, 6 ; division of, 

into periods, 7, 8, 9. 
Hudson river, discovery of, 29. 
Hartford, settlement of, 37. 
Hooker, Rev. Mr., bold address 

of, 38. 
Hamilton, Col., appointed Sec- 
retary of the Treasury, 262 ; re- 
port of, on public credit, 263 ; 
resignation of, 281 ; death of, 
300. 
Hartford Convention, 348. 
Harmar, defeat of, 268. 
Hull, surrender of Detroit by ,324 
Hull, naval achievement of, 324. 
Jamestown, settlement of, 22. 
James II. abdication of, 62. 
Indians, account of, 15 — 19. 
Jasper, sergeant, anecdote of, 171 
Independence, declaration of,17S 

signers of, 176. 
Insurrection, Shays', 252 ; Penn- 
sylvania, 280. 
Jay, John, appointment of, as 
Chief Justice. 262; treaty of, 
279. 
Jetferson, Thomas, appomtment 
of as Secretary, 262 ; resigna- 
tion of,277 ; vice president, 283; 
president, 295 ; re-election of, 
300 ; resignation of, 30 L 
Jackson, Gen. defence of New- 
Orleans by, 351 ; conduct of in 
the Seminole war, 368—373. 
Indiana, erected into a state, 359. 
niinois, erected into a state, 367. 
Ivniphausen, Gen. infamous con- 
duct of, 218. 
Knox, Gen. appomtment of, as 

Secretary of War, 262 
Kentucky, settlement of, 271. 
Lenox, duke cf, grant to, 30. 
Leisler, Jacob, usurpation ot, 7j. 
Louisburg, expedition against, 
104; restored, 108 ; taken by 
the English, 130. 
Lee, Richard Henry, address of, 

174. 
Lincoln, Ge«. defeat of, 209 ; su- 
perseded, 217. 
[raws, alien and sedition notice. 
of, 294. 



INDEX. 



399 



Louisiana, erected into a state, 
319. 

Lawrence, Capt. death of, 333. 

Massachusetts Bay, settlement 
of, 35. 

Maryland, settlement of, 36. 

Manners of the colonists, 63, 108, 
144, 245, 257, 283, 295, 311, 
358, 381. 

Montcalm, death of, 137. 

Massacre of citizens of Boston, 
157. 

Montg-omery, Gen. death of, 168. 

Montreal, capture of, 142. 

Morg"an, Gen. bravery of, at the 
baltle of the Cowpens, 230. 

Michigan, territorial gvvernment 
for, 302. 

Madison, James, elected presi- 
dent, 311; re-elected, 330 ; re- 
tires, 357. 

Monroe, James, elected presi- 
dent, 358 ; tour of, 363 ; se- 
cond tour of, 397 ; third, 375 ; 
re-elected, 377. 

Mississippi erected into a state, 
364. 

Maine erected into a state, 376. | 



Philip, king, war with, 48. 

Province of Maine, settlement of, 
41 ; dispute respecting-, termi- 
nated, 77 ; erected into a state, 
376. 

Pennsylvania, settlement of, 59. 

Phipps, Sir Wm. life of, 83. 

Population, 70, 112, 145, 247,259^ 
286,296,313, 360, 38*. 

Putnam, Gen. adventure of, 204. 

Pitt, his friendship to America, 
153 ; conciliatory bill of, 161. 

Peyton, Ensign, story of, 138. 

Patrick Henry, resolutions of,151 

Philadelphia, occupation of, by 
the British, 184. 

President, frigate, attack upon, 
317 ; capture of, 355. 

Pike, Gen. death of, 331. 

Prevost, Sir Geo. defeat of, 347. 

Pirates, provision ag-ainst, 381. 

Quesne, Fortdu, capture of, 132. 

Quebec, successful expedition a- 
gainst, 135 ; unsuccessful ex-pe- 
dition under Montg-omery. 1 68. 

Rhode Island, settlement o'f, 37. 

Religion, 64, 109, 145, 245, 259, 
284, 295,311,359, 383. 



New-York, settlement of, 29 ;!Pevolution, causes of, 147. 
taken from the Dutch, 44 ; com Randolph, Peyton, president of 

Continental Cong-ress, 159. 



motions in, 72. 

New England receives its name 
29 ; settlement of, 29 ; Union 
of the Colonies of, 33. 

New Hampshire, settlement of, 
24 ; separati' Vi of, from Massa 
chusetts, 58. 

New-Haven, settlement of, 40 
Colony of, united to Connecti 
cut, 43. 

New-Jersey, settlement of, 44. 
division of, 56 ; re-union of, 57. 

Nova Scotia, capture of, 121. 

Niagara, capture of. 134. 

Norfolk, burning of, 169. 

Ochterlony, Capt. story of,138. 

Ohio, settlement of, 299. 

Orders in council, British, 305, 
308. 

Officers and soldiers, revolution- 
ary, provision for, 366. 

Powhatan, account of, 27. 

Pocahontas, her story, 27. 

Puritans, account of, 29 ; settle- 
ment, 29. 

Providence, settlement of, 37. 

l*equotG, war with, 38. * 



Rochambeau, Count de, arrival 
of, 220. 

Representatives in Cong-ress, ra- 
tio of, fixed, 269, 379. 

Ross, Gen. death of, 344. 

Smith, Capt John, Hfe of, 22 — 29 

Settlement of Jamestown, 22 ; of 
New-Eng-land, 29; of New- 
York, 20 ; of New Hampshire, 
33 ; of Massachusetts Bay, 35 : 
of Maryland, 36 ; of Connecti- 
cut, 36 ; of New-Haven, 40 ; 
of Rhode Island, 37 ; of Pro- 
vince of Maine, 41 ; of New- 
Jersey, 44 ; of Deleware, 45 ; 
of Carolina, 46 ; of Pennsylva- 
nia, 59; of Georgia, 102; of 
Vermont, 265 ; of Kentucky, 
271; of Tennessee, 283; of 
Ohio. 206 ; ot Michigan, 303 ; 
of Louisiana, 319; of Missis- 
sippi, 364 ; of Illinois, 367; of 
Arkansas, 375 ; of Alabama, 
376 ; of Missouri, 377 ; of Flori- 
da, 379. 



400 



INDEX. 



Stamp Act, account of, 150; re- fleet, 334 ; Peacock, 343^ 
sistance to, 151. Macdoucugh's fleet, 346 ; Con- 

Stark, Gen. success of, at Ben- stitution, 338 ; Hornet, 339. 
nington, 187. ,War, Pequot, 38 ; Philip's war, 



Savannah, capture of, by the Bri- 
tish, 201. 

Stony Point, capture of, 205. 

Sumpter, Gen, spirited conduct 
of, 210. 

Shays, insurrection of, 252. 

Slave trade, account of, 278. 

Seminole war, 368. 

Treaty of the Plymouth colony, 
with Massassoit, 31 ; of Utrecht 
99; of Aix la Chapelle, 108; 
of Paris, 143; between Great 
Britain and the U. States, 241, 
279 ; with the Wabash Indians 
274; with the Miamis, 281: 
with Algiers, 281; with Spain, 
281; with G. Britain, 353; 
with Algiers, 353; with Swe- 
den, 398 ; with Great Britain, 
374 ; with Spain, 374. 

Trade and Commerce, 67, 1 10, 
145, 246, 257, 285, 296, 312, 
359, 384. 

Ticonderoga, unsuccessful attack 
upon, 131 ; capture of, 134 
secured by Ethan Allen, 163 
retaken by the British, 180. 

Tea, fate of a quantity sent to 
America, 158. 

Thompson, Charles, Secretary to 
Continental Congress, 159. 

Tryon, Gov. expedition of, into 
Connecticut, 203. 

Terney, M. de, arrival of, with a 
French fleet, 220. 

Tennessee, settlement of, 282 

Tompkins, D. D. elected vice 
president, 358 ; re elected, 377 

Union of NewEnglaud Colonies, 
42 ; proposed by the British 
ministr}', 120. 

Virginia, rebellion in, 55; spir- 
ited conduct of, during the re- 
volution, 151. 

Vermont, settlement of, 265- 

Victory, naval, of the Constitu 
tion, 324 ; of the Wa-sp, 327 : 
of the U. States, 327 ; of the 
Constitution, 328 ; Hornel 
330 ; Enterprise, 334 ; Perry's 



48 ; King William's, 81 ; Queen 
Anne's, 92; George II. 104; 
French and Indian, 116; Revo- 
lutionary, 147; Indian, 268; 
Tripolitan, 300; with G. Bri- 
tain, 321 , Seminole, 368. 

William, Prince of Orange, ac- 
cession of, 62 

Witchcraft, account of, 77. 

W illiams. Rev, Mr. story of, 93. 

Whita, Col. John, extraordinary 
enterprise of, 202. 

Wolfe, Gen. death of, 137. 

Whigs and Tories, explanation 
of, 159. 

Wooster, Gen. death of, 183. 

Wadsworth, Gen. story of, 210. 

Washington, George, expedition 
of, against the French, 118; 
appointed commander in chief, 
165 ; organizes the army, 166 ; 
fortifies Dorchester Heights, 
170; enters Boston, 170; re- 
moves his head quarters to N. 
York, 177 ; evacuates New- 
York, and retires to White 
Plains, 178 ; retreats to New- 
ark, &;c. and into Pennsylva- 
nia, 1 79 ; recrosses into New- 
Jersey, and takes 1000 Hes- 
sians at Trenton, 182 ; distress- 
ing situation of, 219 ; attempt 
of to take Arnold, 223; plan of, 
to attack New-York, 235 ; 
goes towards Yorktown, 236 ; 
defeats Cornwallis, 237 ; fare- 
well address of, to his army, 
241 ; to his officers, 242 ; re- 
signs his commission, 242; re- 
tires to Mt. Vernon, 243 ; 
elected president of conven- 
tion, 258 ; elected president of 
U. States, 259 ; tour of, into 
New-England, 263 ; into the 
Southern States, 269 ; retires 
from publick life, 283 ; ap- 
pointed to command the Amer- 
ican army under Adams, 291 ; 
death of, 292. 

Washington city , capture of, 343. 



N. B. — There are in this work 400 pages. 

To which add . 24 Do. for plates not included. 



Malri 



424 nnp-r^s in the work. 



